Taking Your Pet to Work

Do to a personal request the first topic I will discuss is taking your pet to work.  Obviously some ground rules apply such as: having supervisor approval, ensuring no co-workers are allergic to your pet, making sure you have regular breaks to take your dog for a walk, having a quiet workspace so the dog can lay down in your office or under your desk (if your office home is a cubicle), and cleaning up any messes (hair and you know what else!) the dog might make.  I apologise for frequently referencing dogs, as cats can be included as well - as long as they do not go off wandering. 
In a former social work position I brought my small dog Bella to work and it was a great experience for the clients.  I found them to be more open when petting to Bella and overall they seemed to have an easier time expressing their feelings.  However, I did find that I was exhausted by the end of the day after trying to do my regular work while also keeping an eye out for Bella.  But it was a great socialising experience for her as well.

Other than the enjoyment of having your companion at your side, it also relieves some guilt that comes with leaving your pet alone during the day while you are at work.  The health benefits are also something to consider as just the act of petting your animal after a stressful phone call or meeting can help to relieve tension.  It also gives you a boost to know that at least one person (dog counts right?) in your life loves you unconditionally! 

In my perfect world, Bella would be able to come with me to work everyday.  I know this is not a possibility right now as where I work does not permit animals - but it does make private practise sound all the more alluring if I knew that Bella could be at my side.

Also, after a stressful day, just remember to treat your animal with love even if you are feeling frustrated. It's not their fault that you might have had a bad day.

*Another note to consider: I DO NOT recommend exposing your animal to clients who have a history of being violent towards pets. While they are at work your pet is under your supervision and their safety should be paramount!!!