Get That Dog A Job!!

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Tomorrow, June 23, is National Take Your Dog to Work Day. Take Your Dog to Work Day was started by Pet Sitters International back in 1999. Here's what the day is all about:

On June 23, 2006, Pet Sitters International will host its 8th Annual Take Your Dog To Work Day® event. Modern Dog magazine, Magna Hospitality Group and PETS 911 have joined PSI in its effort to bolster pet adoptions from shelters, humane societies and rescue groups and educate the public on the benefits of responsible pet ownership.

Pet Sitters International, the creator of the day, is asking businesses around the world to allow employees to bring their well-mannered dogs to the office on Take Your Dog To Work Day. The celebratory event is intended to promote the human-animal bond by facilitating positive interactions between dogless co-workers and their colleagues’ canine companions. However, there is much more to this annual festival of dog than simply celebrating man’s and woman’s best friend.

“Take Your Dog To Work Day is about confronting the realities of pet overpopulation in a positive and proactive way,” states PSI President Patti Moran. “People bringing their dogs to work in celebration of Take Your Dog To Work Day can make a huge difference in pet adoptions around the world.” Moran’s company, PSI, which represents approximately 7,500 independent professional pet-sitting businesses, says developing partnerships between businesses, animal shelters and pet-care professionals is key to the success of the day. The educational organization is asking participating businesses to open their doors to shelters, animal rescues and PSI members on June 23, in addition to allowing pets. “All dogs, especially those without loving caregivers, deserve good homes,” says Moran. “By working together, we can make a better day for dogs everywhere.”

Now if you're like me and it's not practical to actually take your dog to work, there are other things you can do to help promote the occassion. Pet Sitters International lists 10 things you can do on this day to help, whether or not your favorite companion goes with you.

1. Spearhead a Fido Fundraiser!

Designate the proceeds to a local animal charity, shelter or rescue group. Anyone can hold a fundraiser and the best part is that you're helping your own community.

2. Hold a Doggie Adopt-A-Thon!

This can be done at the office or at your local shelter. Make arrangements for a few animals from the shelter to visit your office and maybe your co-workers will take them home. That's what TYDTWD® is all about!

3. Put on a Pet Fair!

Invite local pet vendors and shelters to come and talk about their businesses. Ask them to donate products or gift certificates for a raffle or silent auction. Then, donate the proceeds to the local shelter.

4. Picture This - A Photo Session!

Last year, the marketing department of a participating company donated their time and expenses to take photos of the associates with their dogs. The photos cost $10.00 each and all of the proceeds were matched by the company and donated to a local shelter. At another company, the employer took photos with a digital camera and gave each dog owner a framed copy.

5. Party Hearty!

From a hot dog lunch with all the fixings to a simple afternoon break with dog bone-shaped cookies and doggie treats, everyone deserves a little “paws” at work!

6. Play Doggie Dress-up!

Let’s face it, dogs dressed as people are funny and adorable. Dress up your pup and hold a doggie costume contest or a puppy parade.

7. Educate Other Employees!

Sure, this day is about having fun, but what’s most important is raising awareness about homeless dogs! Use the day as a way to educate people in your community about animal misconceptions, homeless animal statistics, health benefits of pet ownership and more.

8. Decorate...Doggone It!

Be sure to put up posters, wear your TYDTWD® T-shirt and bring in your Doggie Briefcase to show your support for the event!

9. Make Mutt Memories!

Keep a photo album of the day as a souvenir. Add to it each year. Some participants even display their “Certificate of Participation” on their walls and Web sites.

10. Conduct K-9 Kontests.

Come up with contest ideas, such as best trick, friendliest canine co-worker, the “lazy dog” employee of the day or most talented. Use your imagination for other fun contest categories. Get local pet-supply retailers to donate prizes or order official TYDTWDay items HERE.

If any of you take your dogs to work, be sure to let me know how it went!!