Tips on bringing your pet to work

If there’s anything that can make the workday more enjoyable it’s taking your four legged friend with you. With many workplaces across New Zealand becoming pet-friendly, now is the time to see if your best furry friend could also be your coworker. A study done by the International Journal of Workplace Health Management showed that having a dog at work can increase job satisfaction as well as reduce stress. Once you have the tick of approval from your workplace, there are a few things you need to take into consideration before you take your pet into the office.

Is your pet ready to go to work with you?

Is your pet comfortable in new places, surrounded by new people? If the answer is no, then it may be stress-inducing to bring your dog or cat into this environment. If you have a dog that is territorial or aggressive, chances are that they may not do well in an office setting and this will only cause stress for you and your co-workers. If you are bringing a cat into the office, it is important to take into consideration any other animals that may also be present. For example, will your feline feel comfortable in an office with dogs?

How to get your pet workplace ready

Housetrain your pet and be prepared for accidents

If you are bringing your pooch into the office, it will be a lot easier if they are housetrained. If they aren’t, or if you have a puppy who is still learning, make sure you prepare for accidents by using some training pads.

If you are bringing your cat, come equipped with a litter tray and some litter.

It may also help to bring in poop bags like these Beco Eco-Friendly Mint Scented Poop Bags to dispose of anything.

Make sure your four legged friend is microchipped.

Depending on your work environment, doors often open and close a lot giving your cat or dog the perfect opportunity to go for a wander. Having them microchipped is the easiest way to keep track of them in the case of a Houdini situation. A collar with a tag with your contact details on it is also a great idea.

Give them their own space, and keep it confined.

It is important that your pet has their own space in the office, for keeping them contained but also to give them a place to go to feel safe and separate from the other human and animals in the office. For your dog, you may choose to take a dog crate or a puppy pen. Even if you have an older dog, this will keep them away from potential dangers such as computer cables, or other animals. It will also prevent any lunch time begging!

A crate can also work well for cats, otherwise there are plenty of ‘cat tents’ and other enclosures to keep your feline safe. You will also want a cat carrier to get to and from the car.

Packing for your pet’s day at work

I’m bringing my dog to work, what are the necessities? Here’s our list of must haves for the office dog:

• Healthy treats
• Water bowl
• Food bowl
• A comfortable bed
• Poo bags
• Cleaning supplies (just in case)
• Boredom buster toys. Our favourites are the KONG Classic Dog Toy, Outward Hound Treat Maze, Trixie Snack Snake and Trixie Activity Flip Bone

I’m bringing my cat to work, what are the necessities? Here’s our list of must haves for the office cat:

• Healthy treats
• Water bowl
• Food bowl
• A comfortable bed
• Litter tray with litter and a scooper
• Cleaning supplies
• Entertaining toys. Our favourites are the Trouble & Trix Bliss Mouse wand, Trixie Catch the Balls - 3 Tier and Hartz Roll About Mouse Catnip Toy

Other things to take into account when taking your pet to work

The most important factor to having a successful cuddly coworker is that your pet is comfortable. You will want to take your dog out for regular toilet breaks, and it is a good idea to make sure they've had some exercise before the day begins. Remember, your dog is in a new environment meeting new people and they may become overwhelmed or frightened. Look out for signs of stress such as growling, snarling, barking, lunging and biting. Some more subtle signals include repeated lip licking, yawning, excessive panting or a tucked in tail.

Watch out for signs of stress in your cat such as trembling, hiding, trying to escape, destructive or aggressive behaviour and increased meowing.

Your pet may be excited and confident or apprehensive about making new friends. Either way, it is important that this is done on their terms. Give your coworkers toys and treats so they can show your pet that they are friendly. If your cat or dog seem uncomfortable, take a break and try again later when they are feeling less overwhelmed.

If you have any questions about ways to ensure your cat or dog is more comfortable in your workplace, don't hesitate to reach out to one of our Customer Service Experts on 0800 200 240.

Shop Cat & Dog Essentials