Why Taking Your Dog To Work Can Make Them Happier And Healthier
Why Taking Your Dog To Work Can Make Them Happier And Healthier
Whenever you interact with your dog, or simply look into their eyes, their brain releases oxycontin, a feel-good hormone that increases trust, empathy, and generosity, National Geographic reports. And, this works both ways — you also get that hormone release, too. So, you knew your dog loves to spend time with you, and now you understand the science behind why that is too. It also then naturally follows that it’s good for your dog’s health to bring them into work with you, instead of leaving them alone for most of the day. If you’re lucky enough to have a pet-friendly workplace, this can be a great opportunity for you to bond, reduce separation anxiety, and reinforce positive behaviors.
More bonding time
If you take your dog to work, there’s more opportunities for oxycontin release throughout the day, which relaxes your dog, reduces stress, and helps you both bond. Plus, science has also found the more time you spend together, the deeper your dog connects with you on an emotional level. Your dog can even start to recognize your emotions, which helps you understand each other better and strengthens your relationship.
However, this can only work as long as your dog’s relatively well-trained, of course. And, you should still always be prepared to clean up in case they have an accident — which you’re probably already used to doing since the average pet owner spends 832 hours cleaning up after their pet per year! So, always bring poop bags, paper towels, and dog-safe enzyme cleaner that eliminates odors and stains from pet mess. In other words, good cleaning practices are essential to maintain a safe and healthy dog-friendly workspace, which you and your colleagues will appreciate.
Reduces separation anxiety
Just like humans, dogs are naturally social creatures, and some can develop anxiety when left alone. This is called separation anxiety (which affects eight out of ten dogs), and it usually develops in ones who haven’t properly learned it’s ok to spend time alone. If this is the case for your dog, you can take them to work as part of a plan to reduce their separation anxiety over time. In these cases, experts advise owners to slowly desensitize dogs to being left alone, so taking them to the office is a great way to keep them company throughout the day, while you work on this issue at other times.
Plus, this also helps get your dog accustomed to new and exciting environments. The different people, sights, sounds, and smells all provide mental stimulation, which your pooch will love. Regular mental stimulation also relieves stress and helps treat behavioral problems, which includes separation anxiety.
Reinforces positive behaviors
Taking your dog to work is also a great opportunity to reinforce good behaviors and improve their social skills. For example, on your dog’s first visit to the office, take them on a quick walkaround (leashed, of course) and let them say hello to your co-workers. Everytime your dog meets someone and resists the urge to jump up, give them praise and a treat. If your colleagues have also bought their dogs in, it’s best to get them acquainted on a quick walk altogether if possible. Dogs should be rewarded with treats for positive interactions, while you should also be alert for stressed or aggressive body language. If you think the interactions are becoming too boisterous or hostile, just hold your dog back for a few minutes.
It’s official: taking your dog to work is great for their overall health and happiness. So, if you’re lucky enough to have a pet-friendly office, why not bring your dog in to give them a mood boost for the day.
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