One of the main reasons why I was inspired to start my Virtual Assistant practice is that I wanted to work with a dog by my side.
Previous to that, I was working in the corporate world where bringing a furry friend to work was a no-no.
Before I started my own business, I didn't have a dog. Since I spent all day away from home, I didn't feel like I could handle taking care of a dog.
That was what drew me to starting a home business--I could finally get a dog and keep her by my side all day!
This month I saw an encouraging article in Cesar's Way magazine that reported that 1 in 5 businesses (including Google, Amazon, and Ben & Jerry's) now allow employees to bring their dogs to work.
There is even National "Bring Your Dog To Work Day", which is June 22, 2012. More than 3,000 employers have signed up to participate in that event.What are the benefits of working with a dog at your side?
Obviously less stress--studies have shown that when you pet a dog, your blood pressure goes down. Being around dogs tends to make people relax.
According to the Cesar's Way magazine article, studies have shown that people tend to cooperate more with each other when there is a dog in the room--isn't that interesting? Dogs are natural peace makers; they take the edge off!
Another thing that I've noticed about working with dogs--they make you take regular breaks, which is good. If I am left to my own devices I can sit down at my desk in the morning, and the next thing I know it's evening!
When you work with a dog by your side you will naturally get up every couple hours to take them outside, which is good for both of you.
I now have two adorable pups that are my "office assistants" (little "Paisley" is pictured above), and I know I couldn't get as much done without them. ;)
What about you--do you bring your dog to work (even when you're working at home)?
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