Behind the Headlines

That might not just be your stomach growling at work on Friday.

The day has been designated the ninth annual “Take Your Dog To Work Day,” sponsored by Pet Sitters International.

The group again is asking businesses to allow employees to bring their well-mannered dogs to the office as “a celebration of the great companions dogs make.”

Part of the idea, according to the group, is that it also “bolsters pet adoptions from shelters, humane societies and rescue groups by educating the working public on the benefits of responsible pet ownership and the power of the human-animal bond.”

“It confronts the realities of pet overpopulation in a positive and proactive way,” says PSI President Patti Moran. “We believe that businesses, animal shelters and pet-care professionals who develop goal-oriented partnerships through our event can make a dramatic impact on the pet populations in their communities. As we like to say at PSI, ‘It’s the leash you can do.’”

In addition to allowing dogs in the workplace, PSI wants businesses to open their doors to representatives from local shelters and pet-care professionals on the day. “All dogs, especially those without loving caregivers, deserve good homes,” Moran says. “Through partnering together, we can turn homeless dogs into dogs bound for home.”

Part of the observance is the PSI-sponsored “What is Your Dog Doing at Work?” photo contest. Dog day participants who upload photos of their canine companions “ruffing it” in the workplace will become eligible to win a $500 grand prize. Plus, a $500 donation will also be made to the winner’s shelter of choice. The winning photo, along with other submissions, will be posted on the Take Your Dog To Work Day Web site.