Petside Items: Take your Pet to Work from Guest Blogger Jo Singer

April is the month that "Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work", is celebrated. Many businesses throughout the United States are delighted to participate and often arrange special events designed to educate children about the business world.

This gives our children an excellent opportunity in which they may gain deeper understanding of our profession and what we do in our offices each day.

As an interesting spin-off of the traditional event for children, Friday, June 20 has been set aside to commemorate "Take Your Dogs to Work" day.

While I am certain that our pooches could care less about our careers, I am sure they will be happy to spend their special day hanging out with us, investigating our office digs and meeting our co-workers. They may even want to answer your phone!

Designed to let people know how important dogs are as companion animals, Pet Sitters International organized the event ten years ago. According to a survey conducted by The American Pet Manufacturers Association, approximately one in five businesses permits their employees to bring their dogs to work. So, for you canine caretakers out there in the world of work, who are planning to take part in this unique celebration, The Humane Society of the United States, suggests taking the time to review some helpful hints from ASPCA experts.

Dog- proof your workspace ahead of time. Get those loose wires and cords taped securely. Be sure any potentially dangerous work supplies, such as markers, paper clips and rubber bands are safely tucked away. Remove any plants and breakable objects from your workspace, safely out of reach from your dog.

Be sure to bring dog food, water, chew toys, feeding dishes and treats. An adequate supply of water, paper towels or wipes a blanket or doggie bed and of course, a leash is mandatory. It is prudent to arrange to confine your dog, if there is a chance that you may be called away from your desk. It is also a good idea to check with your co-workers if they are allergic to dogs.

Clear all trash and tempting food items left around the office. It would be difficult for your dog to resist a left over bagel or piece of coffee cake, or even a piece of chocolate. It is always better to be safe than sorry in case your pooch get into something potentially toxic. Bacteria thrive on left over lunches or snacks, but dogs do not.

You can read the complete Top 10 Office Etiquette Tips for Dogs.