DogFriendly.com - Dogs in the Workplace

Guidelines for Allowing Dogs in Your Workplace

Issues / Conflicts

There can sometimes be issues or conflicts when bringing dogs to work. But if everyone respects each other rights, there can definitely be room for pets in the workplace!

Afraid of Dogs/Uncomfortable Around Dogs
For people afraid of dogs, dog owners can keep their pup leashed, so he or she will not frighten anyone. Several companies have implemented a leash rule specifically because some people were are afraid or uncomfortable around dogs.

Aggressive Dogs
Only well-behaved dogs should be allowed into the workplace. They should not show any aggressive tendencies towards people like growling, snarling or biting. However, remember that even well-behaved dogs may not like UPS or Fed Ex delivery people, and that is why dogs should be restricted either by a leash or in an enclosed office or cubicle.

Allergies
Some people in the office might be allergic to dogs. Allergies can sometimes be difficult to deal with, but companies have found good compromises. Some employers have accommodated both the dog owner and allergic person by having separate work areas. Others have implemented leash rules so dogs will not roam over to the allergic person's work area. Also, some employers have exempted dogs from the restrooms, cafeterias, break rooms and meeting rooms to accommodate everyone.

As a side note regarding people with allergies to pets, the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) has documents regarding pet allergies and airplanes. A person with severe pet allergies has to be prepared and find out ahead of time if there is a pet onboard. If a pet is near an allergic person in an airline cabin, the allergic person can move or switch to another flight. But the pet cannot be removed from the flight. Here are some excerpts from the FAA's website at http://www1.faa.gov/avr/afs/cabinsafety/pets/pets.htm:

Question: I have severe allergies to pet dander. How can I be sure that there is no pet dander on my flight?

Answer: You will still be exposed to pet dander on every flight, even without any pets in the passenger cabin. This is because most allergens are carried into the cabin on the clothes of other passengers.

Question: Then what should I do if I am allergic to pet dander, but I need to fly?

Answer: First, you can reduce the chance that there will be an animal in the cabin on your flight. You can fly on an airline that does not allow pets in the cabin. You can also ask the reservations agent for your airline if another passenger on the same flight has made reservations to travel with a pet. You should also check with your allergist or doctor before your trip to discuss travel related risks and ask if you should carry medications with you. If a reaction should occur during the flight, follow your doctor’s treatment instructions and ask a flight attendant for assistance.