Paws on the Clock: Tips for Working with Your Pet (At Home or at the Office)
- Ana Sofía Raffucci
- 23 hours ago
- 3 min read
Whether you're clocking in from your couch or heading into a pet-friendly office, Take Your Pet to Work Week is the perfect reminder that pets aren't just part of our homes, they’re part of our everyday lives. But while having your four-legged coworker nearby can be comforting and fun, it also takes a little planning to make it work for both of you.
Here’s how to keep things productive, pet-safe, and stress-free… whether you're on a laptop in your living room, in a home office or sharing an office breakroom with a golden retriever named Max.
1. Set Boundaries & Safe Spaces
Working from home? It’s tempting to let your pet roam freely, but having a designated area where they can rest, play, and decompress makes all the difference. Think of it as their “home office.”
✅ Use a comfy bed, crate, or quiet corner.
✅ Offer enrichment toys to reduce boredom.
✅ Keep the space consistent, pets thrive on predictability.
Pro Tip: If you’re doing video calls, make sure your pet’s space isn’t right next to your mic… unless you want your coworkers serenaded by snoring or squeaky toys.
2. Stick to a Routine
Pets love structure, and the chaos of a workday can throw them off balance.
Try to maintain a routine that includes:
Regular potty breaks
Scheduled playtime
Consistent feeding times
A short midday walk for exercise (and your sanity!)
Routines help reduce anxiety and make your pet feel like they know what to expect even when your meetings run long.
3. Office Etiquette: Pet-Friendly Space Do’s & Don’ts
Bringing your pet into a shared workspace? Not every office (or coworker) is equally pet-prepared.
Here’s your pet-friendly office etiquette checklist:
✔️ Make sure your office allows pets. Sounds obvious, but always check the policy.
✔️ Bring only well-socialized, non-aggressive animals. Offices aren’t ideal for reactive or anxious pets.
✔️ Keep them leashed or crated when needed.
✔️ Clean up after them, immediately! Accidents happen. Respect happens faster.
✔️ Bring distractions. Chews, toys, and comfort items help them settle in while you work.
✔️ Ask before entering meetings or other desks. Not everyone is a dog (or cat) person, and that’s okay.
4. What to Pack in Your Pet’s Work Bag
Whether commuting to work or spending a long day out, make sure your pet’s essentials are ready:
Snacks & treats
Collapsible water bowl + water (Our go-to favorite is this one from Springer Pets and you can fetch 15% off using this link)
Waste bags & cleaning wipes
Updated ID tag + digital pet ID (Subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for our official launch this September! 🐾)
A calming aid (chew, spray, or favorite toy)
Small bed or mat for them to rest
Think of it as their daily go-bag. Just like you wouldn’t head to work without your laptop and coffee, your pet needs their own essentials too. Check out more products we love here!
5. Travel & Safety Considerations
If you’re commuting to work or traveling for business with your pet in tow, make sure to plan ahead:
Use a crash-tested seatbelt harness or secure crate in the car. We love Roverlund Carriers for commuting and traveling and you can save up by using our code PETPASSPORTJUNE.
Avoid leaving your pet alone in a vehicle.
Have their health records accessible (PadsPass will offer digital pet ID & medical storage! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay tuned for our official launch this September!)
Plan your route with pet-friendly stops.
If using public transit, check local rules for animals.
The goal: smooth, stress-free travel that prioritizes your pet’s comfort and safety not just your schedule.
Pets Are More Than Coworkers
Whether they’re curled up under our desk or making guest appearances in Zoom meetings, our pets offer us comfort, connection, and the occasional comic relief during the workday. But making pet-inclusive workdays successful takes thought, care, and a bit of planning.
As PadsPass prepares to launch, we're focused on making life with pets at home, on the move, or across borders simpler, safer, and full of tail wags.
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