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Studies have shown that productivity and
camaraderie is higher in office settings that allow pets. Stress is
reduced, communication is boosted, morale is higher, and the
all-around mood is lighter. Just like daycare, pet sitter costs can
be astronomical. Companies that allow pets to join their owners at
work are saving their employees a lot of money.
Since 1999, the Friday after Father’s Day has been designated
“National Take Your Dog to Work Day.” It is a day that has grown in
popularity since its inception. Today, nearly 63 million US
households own at least one dog. An estimated $150.6 billion was
brought in by the pet industry in 2024, proving that pets are
considered an important part of the family unit. Started as a way to
promote dog adoptions by Pet Sitters International, the Friday after
Father’s Day every year celebrates the unique bond owners and pets
have. Many companies have jumped on board and allow pets at work
every day. Some of those companies include: Amazon, Tito’s Handmade
Vodka, Petsmart, Ben & Jerry’s, Build A Bear Workshop, Purina, and
more. Being self employed may make it easier to bring your fur baby
to work everyday, but there are some things to take into
consideration. Are your pets friendly with all people? Do they shed?
Are clients scared or allergic? It is important to weigh all factors
before making the decision to include your pet in your workday.
Several local business owners have chosen to take their pets to work
and they agreed to give Lincoln Daily News insight into what made
them decide it was the right fit for them.
ROBIN BARTON Robin
Barton, owner of Syles by Robin in Lincoln, has taken her adorable
little dog Elvis to work with her for seven years. She decided to
take him because work kept her away from him for too many hours.
Being able to have her best buddy by her side and knowing that he
isn’t home alone makes Robin’s workday better.
Elvis loves seeing people and customers love seeing him. Most
customers greet Elvis first and a lot of them bring him treats. He
has his own bed and toys at the shop and is happy to be the “boss”
in the office chair. Robin says they usually go on a walk at
lunchtime, and they take potty breaks throughout the day.
photos provided by Robin Barton
NICOLE ROYALL Nicole Royall, owner
and stylist at Evolve Salon in Lincoln, has been taking her beloved
Pomeranians to work with her since 2016. Jazz, the white Pomeranian
is 16 years old, and Prince is 12 years old.
The decision to take them to work was made when Jazz had a seizure,
and Nicole didn’t feel comfortable leaving him home alone. Jazz
really brightened the mood at the salon. The dogs are like fluffy
little antidepressants, Nicole said. Nicole noted that not every day
is the right vibe for the dogs, some days are too busy. Making sure
the area is safe for your pet and making time to take potty breaks
are important. Clients love the dogs and often hold them during
their appointments. Working with your besties is just the best!
photos provided by Nicole Royall
ANGIE WULF Angie Wulf, dog groomer
and owner of The Wulf Haus in Lincoln, has taken several of her pets
to work with her over the course of many years.
Angie says that it really helped potty train her animals and that
they are all well socialized and tolerant of both people and other
animals because of it. When Angie transitioned from working in a
grooming shop with other people to opening her own shop she wasn’t
fully prepared for working completely alone.
photos provided by Angie Wulf
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Elsa, her giant Wulf Hound was there for her every
single day. Angie was also dealing with some scary health issues at
the time and having Elsa by her side was a blessing. They have a
special heart to heart bond. Elsa is really big so customers could
be easily intimidated and uneasy about leaving their tiny dogs
around her, but she is so gentle, calm, and loving. Elsa had free
roam of the shop, for the most part, and would greet you at the door
with her sweet demeanor. She is now 10 years old and retired, so she
doesn’t come to the shop daily anymore. She now spends her days
lying around home.
Jack and Louie, both small dogs, also came to work
with Angie quite a bit. Jack (rest in peace) did not get to potty
train with her at the shop as a puppy because she was working in
retail and at an office job at the time. Louie was able to potty
train with her at the shop and the difference was amazing. Jack was
never fully potty-trained, but he was a good boy and did his best.
Louie was always great at not having accidents.
Sailor, the shop cat actually found Angie. While
grieving the loss of her sister-in-law and coworker one day Sailor
walked in and just stayed. A kitty in a dog grooming shop? She has
brought so much love and light and she is absolutely adored. She got
along with the dogs, most of the time. Sailor is now living her best
life in a loving home, helping her owner heal her heart after losing
her beloved dog.
MATTHEW XAMIS
Matthew Xamis of Xamis Ford Lincoln Mercury took his dog Gus to work
for nine years until he passed recently. When he was first
considering getting a dog he knew that he would be gone from home
too much but decided to work with a trainer to socialize Gus at a
young age.
Having Gus around the Xamis dealership brought a sense of calmness
and happiness to Matt, other staff members, and customers. Matt said
that many times customers would rush over to greet Gus and you could
just feel a sense of relief when they saw him lying in the office.
He made it feel more like home.
Matt said that training and socialization are important when taking
your pet to work. Having a safe place for your pet to lay down and
relax out of public spaces is also important.
Photo provided by Matthew Xamis
Osha does not have any specific laws related to having your pets at
work. Some additional state and local laws may apply so make sure
you check before deciding to take your fur babies to work with you.
Overall, the information I gathered seems to point in favor of pets
at work. Ultimately, it is your decision. I think it sounds pretty
paw-fect!
[Lesleigh Bennett]
Resources:
Should You Bring Your Dog to Work? Pros and Cons of Dogs in the
Workplace
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/bring-your-dog-to-work/
National Take Your Dog to Work Day – June 20, 2025
https://nationaltoday.com/national-take-dog-work-day/
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Question: Am I in violation of any OSHA regulations in regards to
having my pet Labrador retriever in my facilities?
Response: OSHA does not have any specific standards prohibiting the
presence of pets in the workplace. We recommend that you contact
your State and local health departments to determine if they have
any regulations that pertain to your situation.
OSHA has no standards prohibiting pets in the workplace. |
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
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