Taking your dog to work can be a delightful experience for both employees and employers, providing numerous benefits such as reduced stress, increased morale, and even cost savings on pet care. However, without careful supervision, the workplace can pose significant risks to pets, potentially leading to emergency veterinary visits. This article explores the joys and dangers of bringing pets to work, illustrated by a real-life incident involving Pippa, a basset hound from Georgia.
A Cautionary Tale from Georgia
Sara Reeves, a high school veterinary science teacher from Milton, Georgia, takes her basset hound, Pippa, to work almost every day. Pippa, a familiar presence in the classroom, contributes to the hands-on learning experience for students aspiring to become veterinary technicians or other professionals in the animal care field. “She’s actually sleeping under my desk right now,” Reeves remarked with a smile.
While the presence of a pet can alleviate stress, it can also lead to anxiety if something goes wrong. One day, Pippa followed Reeves into the school restroom and drank from a toilet that had been recently cleaned, exposing her to harmful cleaning chemicals. “I could hear Pippa drinking from the toilet next to me,” Reeves recalled. “The toilet bowls still had blue water in them from the cleaning chemicals. Besides freaking out for a second, I knew immediately that Pippa might need treatment.”
Quick Action and Expert Advice
As a veterinary science teacher, Reeves knew the urgency of the situation and called Pet Poison Helpline even before heading to the veterinary hospital. This allowed the toxicologists to prepare a treatment plan while she drove Pippa to the hospital. “Once at Veterinary Emergency Group in Alpharetta, Georgia, I gave the hospital team my Pet Poison Helpline case number,” Reeves said. This provided both her and the hospital staff with unlimited consultations with the toxicology team.
Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist and director of Veterinary Medicine at Pet Poison Helpline, explained the situation: “The industrial toilet cleaner Pippa drank contained alkalis, which can cause significant damage to tissue. Fortunately, we determined that the concentration of chemicals in the toilet water was not enough to cause corrosive injury.”
Understanding the Risks of Alkalis
Exposure to alkalis can result in a range of symptoms, from mild tissue irritation to severe corrosive or caustic injury. These chemicals, found in industrial cleaners and many household products like bleach, dishwasher detergents, and oven cleaners, can cause significant damage when ingested, including potential perforations in the esophagus and gastrointestinal tract, which can be fatal. Immediate decontamination and supportive care are crucial for treatment.
In Pippa’s case, she was given an anti-emetic and other gastrointestinal protectants, encouraged to drink water to dilute the ingested chemicals, and sent home to recuperate. Dr. Schmid emphasized the importance of vigilance when bringing pets to work: “When taking your dog or other pet to work, be just as vigilant about potential dangers as you would be at home or on a trip.”
Pet-Proofing Your Workplace
To prevent such incidents, pet owners need to take steps to pet-proof their workplace. This includes securing all potential hazards, keeping cleaning supplies and chemicals out of reach, and ensuring that pets are supervised at all times. “It’s very easy to get distracted by a phone call or while on the computer, and not notice they’ve gotten into something or wandered off,” Dr. Schmid warned.
Moreover, it’s essential to consider how your pet will interact with coworkers. If your pet has a special diet or allergies, inform your colleagues to avoid unapproved treats. Assess whether your pet’s temperament is suitable for the workplace environment. Pets that are anxious in unfamiliar or busy places or have behavioral issues might be better off staying at home.
Celebrating National Take Your Dog to Work Day
National Take Your Dog to Work Day, celebrated on June 21, offers a perfect opportunity for pet owners to enjoy the benefits of having their furry friends at the office. However, preparation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Dr. Schmid advises pet owners to be mindful of potential dangers and to educate themselves on how to handle emergencies.
Pet Poison Helpline’s Toxin Tails series aims to educate the veterinary community and pet lovers about the various poisoning dangers that pets face, both at home and elsewhere. The stories, like Pippa’s, highlight successful treatments and recoveries, offering valuable lessons for pet owners.
Conclusion
Bringing your dog to work can be a wonderful experience, enhancing both personal well-being and workplace morale. However, it requires careful planning and vigilance to ensure the safety of your pet and others. By taking appropriate precautions and being aware of potential hazards, you can enjoy the company of your furry friend while avoiding the risks that come with it.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
