Bringing your pet to work is a recent trend. However, there is now a whole week centered around bringing your pet to work, which takes place on June 19-23 in 2023 and June 17–21 in 2024. Of course, not all companies celebrate this week, so you’ll need to ask around to see if your pet allows you to bring your cat for a day or so.
The very first day of the week (Monday) is also, specifically, bring your cat to work day. Be sure to share your pictures on social media, as well!
Practices to Keep in Mind
Of course, bringing your pet to work isn’t always going to be a walk in the park. There are several practices you need to keep in mind to ensure the process works well for you, your cat, and your coworkers.
First, you should always get permission. Just because it is taking your pet to work week doesn’t mean that your management will allow you to bring your pet. Be sure to mention that you’re bringing a cat, too, as the regulations may be different than those bringing dogs. You should also check with your coworkers to ensure that no one is allergic or opposed to you bringing your cat to work during this week. Always be respectful of those you work with.
Secondly, talk to your coworkers, as well. You should keep up with who is bringing what pet on which days. You may want to coordinate so that the cats and dogs aren’t all on the same day, especially if your cat is scared of dogs. Of course, you know your pet best. Some just aren’t going to enjoy going into the office, no matter what you do. In this case, you should leave them at home. Don’t force your pet to go to celebrate when there is no reason to.
If you do participate, be sure to help your pet stay comfortable. Don’t forget to bring your cat the supplies that they need to be comfortable, including their food, toys, and a litterbox.
Avoid forcing people to interact with your pet. While you like cats, that doesn’t mean everyone else does. When sharing workspaces, be sure to give your coworker plenty of room. You may also have to have your pet on some sort of carrier or harness to prevent them from disturbing others who are working.
As always, have a plan to leave or for someone to pick up your pet in case it doesn’t work out. Sometimes, we think our pets will do just fine with being in the office, but that isn’t how it works at all. If your pet starts showing signs of stress, you may want to leave the office early if available.
Why is This Week Important?
Pets can be a great addition to the workplace. They’re often seen as a way to dissipate stress, which is very common in the working world. Allowing pets in the office may help eliminate some of this stress, which can be helpful in many cases.
This week also helps increase awareness about pets. Many people own pets, but it may not be so obvious when you look at them. However, when everyone brings their dog to work, who owns what pet becomes far more obvious. It also helps introduce pets to those who may not have had many interactions with them previously, and it can help improve your cat’s socialization.
Conclusion
While pet-friendly workplaces are becoming more and more common, most offices still do not allow employees to bring in their pets. Therefore, it’s exceptionally important that you ask permission before celebrating this week. Some workplaces will allow it, but others will not.
Featured Image Credit: Александар-Цветановић, Pexels
