NATIONWIDE — In San Antonio, we love our dogs, and can pretty much guarantee, if allowed, many of us will use June 22 , aka: Take Your Dog to Work Day, as an opportunity to celebrate our pooch companions.

Take Your Dog to Work Day was created by Pet Sitters International and first celebrated in 1999 as a way to revere companions dogs and promote adoptions.

This year commemorates the 20th annual celebration.

In San Antonio, Rita’s on the River has been named one of the most dog-friendly restaurants in the country by Travel + Leisure magazine. While you sip on a margarita, your dog can have a free water slushy, and order from the dog menu that includes dog-friendly ice cream.The restaurant also has special “yappy hours” with dog businesses and organizations, and donates a portion of the proceeds from dog menu items to local animal rescues.

If your company is planning to celebrate Friday, there are several steps to take that will make you, your dogs and your co-workers' experience safe and enjoyable.

PREPPING YOUR WORKSPACE

  1. Check with management/co-workers to see if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you bringing dogs to work. Be respectful of those you work with and plan an alternate celebration, if necessary.

  2. Puppy-proof the work space. If you plan on working with your dog, make sure your office environment is safe. Remove poisonous plants, hide electrical cords and wires and secure toxic items such as correction fluid and permanent markers. Any office items in question should be placed out of paw’s reach.

  3. Be sure your dog’s shots are current. Be mindful of your dog’s demeanor. If he is aggressive or overly shy, it’s best to leave him at home. "Consider how your dog has behaved in the past around strangers before making the decision to bring him. If your dog has shown fear, irritability or aggression, or if your dog has never met strangers, the workplace is not the best place for him. If bringing him to the office is a goal, work with a trainer in a class or private setting first until your dog is ready. Instead, consider bringing a favorite picture of your pooch."

  4. Prepare a bag with food, treats, bowls, toys, a leash, paper towels, clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant. If you are routinely in and out of your work space, consider bringing a baby gate for your doorway or a portable kennel for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.

  5. Plan your dog’s feeding/potty time(s) around your work schedule.

  6. To avoid pet accidents, monitor the amount of treats your pet is being given from your co-workers. Remember to remove or put away any foods that could harm pups.

  7. Have an exit strategy. Although most dogs enjoy TYDTWDay, your pet may not. Should your dog become overly boisterous, agitated or withdrawn, consider taking him or her home or plan in advance for your professional pet sitter to offer a midday check-in visit. Never, under any circumstance, leave your pet alone in a vehicle while you work.

And if you can't celebrate at work, why not organize a meet-up with co-workers at one of the gazillion pet-friendly establishments in San Antonio? Here are some of SA’s favorites:   

DOG-FRIENDLY FUN IN SAN ANTONIO

To see a full list, visit BringFido.com.