Last year The Blue Cross launched a National Take Your Dog To Work Day, an annual fundraising event.
The aim is to encourage dog owners to spend more quality time with their canine companions.
However, aside from this event, dogs in the workplace is becoming a more common sight throughout Britain, which is fantastic for dog lovers, but perhaps not so great for those who aren't so much into pets.
For those who are thinking of taking their pet into work, there's much to be considered before doing so.
Firstly, approval from the company you work for is obviously a must, and below are other things to take into consideration.
Colleagues: You need to ensure that everyone in your workplace would be comfortable with having a dog around.
Dog lovers have a tendency to forget that not everyone shares the same passion for canines and those who don't adore dogs may not be happy to have one present at work.
Another potential issue is allergies.
Allergic reactions to dogs are quite common, and you must ensure that no colleagues would experience the discomfort of an allergic reaction to your pet.
Temperament: Your dog's temperament matters greatly.
If your dog tends to be temperamental around strangers, it is not a good idea to take him to work, where he will most probably come across unfamiliar people on a regular basis.
Dogs can also be very protective of their owners and territorial, and may not want to let you out of their sight, or allow other people to take your attention, a trait that is unacceptable at work.
You must be certain that your dog has a suitable attitude and behaves almost impeccably.
Misbehaviour from your dog could result in not only you from being punished, but perhaps a ban on all pets at your workplace.
Time: Work is just that.
And if having your dog around is likely to affect your performance then you've got no choice but to leave him at home.
Work is often busy, and can become stressful at times.
You must remember this and plan how you can fulfill your dog's needs whilst working.
Taking your dog to work should not result in the neglect of either your job or your pet.
It helps to form a routine for toilet breaks, and keep it consistent, ensuring that you can carry it out at the same times each day.
This will help your dog to become used to the break times, and prevent accidents from happening.
Security: You need to ensure that your dog would feel comfortable and secure in your workplace by providing a place for him to sleep and feel at home.
A constant supply of fresh water is essential, and your dog will need feeding at the relevant time.
After taking all this into account, there are many benefits to taking your dog to work.
Some research has even suggested that having pets present in the workplace can have positive effects on the working environment, decreasing stress levels, improving work relations and even increasing performance! Perhaps something to drop into the conversation asking you boss for permission to bring Fido along! Having your dog around somehow seems to make you feel more relaxed and comfortable.
They love you unconditionally and enrich your life.
They're always happy to see you and they never hold a grudge.
During more stressful times at work, having your faithful friend by your side can make you feel calm and ease any tension.
Another great thing about taking your dog to work is that it provides you with the perfect opportunity to get outside and away from your desk.
Whether it's to exercise, play or just for your pet to do his business, you have the chance to take a breather with your very best friend.
Many company directors who currently allow pets to come to work claim that the atmosphere is much more relaxed.
It is believed that dogs help to break down any barriers between employees, creating a pleasant and friendly environment.