Can I Bring My Dog To Work?

Dear Deb:

My 17-year-old, 12-pound terrier is now blind.   He lies on his pillow bed all day.  I can barely rouse him to go for a walk because of his age.   I want to bring him to work with me.  How do I ask my manager this?  We are in a company-owned building with about 50 workers, all realtors, administrative workers, and managers.  My cubicle is in the back, away from the areas where customers would be.

Help!  I can’t stop working to take care of my dog.  And, it is too sad to leave him.

Thanks,

Abigail

Dear Abigail:

I am sorry that you dear dog has lost his sight.  He is lucky to have such a caring “dog mom.” 

Your office is a place of business, first and foremost.  Unless the owners have established a dog-friendly workplace, they may not be open to such a request. Also, in some situations this could be a county or city regulatory issue or an insurance policy issue.   So, realize that the answer may be outside of your manager’s hands.

Before asking your manager, think of all of the possible issues, including safety, hygiene, and business interruption. Have a plan for each.  Ask your manager in a respectful way, realizing that this is a big request.  If they allow you a test period, be very careful that bringing your dog to work does not impact your performance.

If the answer is “no,” consider trading favors with a friend or relative who is home during your work hours and who may care for your pet in exchange for services you can provide, such as babysitting children on the weekend or housework.  There are also dog day care facilities in many towns. 

Wishing you and your terrier all the best!

Deb