Getty ImagesBeing able to bring Ike to work is a pretty awesome office perk. Sure, he can't answer phones, and typing out memos isn't exactly his forte. But when the day gets stressful, he's right there with a friendly little nudge and a wag of his tail - and everything just miraculously gets better.
Not everyone is as lucky as me. Pet-friendly workplaces are becoming more common, but they certainly aren't the standard. Good thing there's Take Your Dog to Work Day - an annual holiday that's gaining some momentum.
First celebrated in 1999, TYDTWD was designed to promote pet adoption and draw attention to the fact that dogs make excellent companions. It was created by Pet Sitters International, who believed that if more people could see the loving bond between humans and their pets - even for just one day - they'd consider adopting an orphaned pet of their own.
So why should your workplace want to participate? Well, studies show that pets in the workplace can boost employee morale, productivity and even sales. And in addition to all that - it's a whole lot of fun for employees.
Think you might want to observe this fun, furry holiday? Talk to your boss, and see if it's doable, then prepare for a day unlike any other - but you'd better do it quick, 'cause TYDTWD is right around the corner - this Friday - June 25.
I wonder if I can teach Ike to deliver memos before then.
Do you celebrate TYDTWD at your office? Does your boss let you bring in pets any other time of year? Share your stories in the comments below.
