Late June is one of the cutest excuses of the year to show off your four-legged bestie: Take Your Pet to Work Week (June 22–26, 2026). If your workplace is pet-friendly (or you’re testing it out for a single day), a little prep makes the difference between “adorable coworker cameo” and “why is there kibble in the printer?”
This guide is designed for real life: quick checklists, low-stress routines, and easy ways to look put-together while keeping your dog or cat comfortable. Along the way, you’ll find a few outfit ideas and giftable picks for fellow pet parents—without going overboard.
What is Take Your Pet to Work Week (and when is it in 2026)?
Pet Sitters International promotes Take Your Pet to Work Week as a pet-friendly moment that includes Take Your Cat to Work Day (Monday) and Take Your Dog to Work Day (Friday). In 2026, one pet-industry calendar lists the week as June 22–26, with the cat day on June 22 and dog day on June 26.
Before you RSVP “yes”: 6 quick questions to ask your workplace
- Is the office truly pet-friendly? Confirm rules (leashes, crates, zones, size limits, vaccination requirements).
- Any coworkers with allergies or fears? Ask HR or your manager for a gentle heads-up plan.
- Where can pets potty (and where can’t they)? Choose a designated outdoor route.
- Are there quiet spaces? Pets need breaks from high-traffic areas and meeting rooms.
- What’s your plan if it’s not working? Line up a friend, sitter, or quick ride home.
- Will you be outside much? If you’ll walk during lunch, plan for heat and pavement.
Office prep checklist (pack this the night before)
For dogs
- Leash + backup leash
- Harness (more comfortable for longer days)
- Collapsible water bowl + plenty of water
- Chews or long-lasting enrichment (snuffle mat, lick mat, puzzle)
- Waste bags + wipes + paper towels
- Mat/blanket that smells like home
- Crate or pop-up pen (if allowed)
For cats (yes, it can work for the right cat)
- Secure carrier (hard-sided or sturdy soft carrier)
- Portable litter box + litter + scoop + trash bags
- Food, treats, and water
- Feliway-type calming support (ask your vet first)
- A quiet room plan (cats do best with a dedicated space)
How to set your pet up for success at the office
1) Do a “practice half-day” first
If possible, try a short visit on a slower day. You’ll learn quickly whether your pet settles, startles at the elevator, or thinks every coworker is a new best friend.
2) Choose calm, familiar routines
Feed and walk at the usual times. Predictability helps pets stay regulated in a new environment.
3) Create a safe “home base” spot
Pick a low-traffic corner. Lay down a mat or blanket and keep toys there. You want one consistent place where your pet can decompress between interactions.
4) Keep greetings short and sweet
Pet meet-and-greets are fun, but too many people at once can overwhelm even social pets. Encourage coworkers to approach slowly and avoid crowding.
Summer safety: the non-negotiables for late-June office days
June can be deceptively hot—even if your office is air-conditioned. The American Red Cross emphasizes a few key summer rules for pets:
- Never leave a pet in a parked car, even briefly, because temperatures can rise dangerously fast.
- Offer plenty of fresh water and provide shade when outdoors; avoid over-exercising in heat.
- Watch hot pavement, which can burn paws and cause pets to overheat.
- Know heat-stroke warning signs (collapse, heavy panting, very red gums, vomiting/diarrhea, high body temperature) and seek veterinary care quickly.
What to wear to a pet-friendly office (cute, comfy, not fussy)
Your outfit goal: look pulled together while being ready for fur, drool, and impromptu floor cuddles.
Outfit idea #1: “Meeting-ready, dog-walk ready”
- Lightweight layer you can remove easily
- Sneakers or loafers (easy for quick potty breaks)
- A tote you can wipe clean
If you love playful, illustrated pet style, browse our Pets in Sunglasses and Pets in Hats collections for cheerful designs that still feel office-appropriate.
Outfit idea #2: “Casual Friday” for Take Your Dog to Work Day
- A soft graphic tee + breathable pants/jeans
- A hair tie (trust us)
- Lint roller in your bag
Start with our easy staples: t-shirts or a cozy layer if your office runs cold. If you’re a golden parent, the Golden Retriever Collection is a feel-good favorite.
Outfit idea #3: “Air-conditioned office survival”
Some offices are chilly even in summer. A lightweight hoodie or sweatshirt is the perfect fix—especially if you’re spending extra time sitting while your pet snoozes.
- Comfy layer: hoodies or sweatshirts
- Hands-free bag or wipeable tote
Easy gift ideas for coworkers during Take Your Pet to Work Week
If you’re joining the week as a small team tradition, tiny “pet-parent gifts” can be a sweet touch:
- A fun tee or hoodie for the office group photo
- A tote bag for treats, toys, and travel essentials
- A breed-themed pick for someone’s specific bestie
Need inspiration? Our Gift Guide for Pet Lovers is curated for easy browsing, and tote bags make a practical “pet to work” carry-all.
Quick FAQ
Can I bring my cat to work?
Some cats do well with calm, quiet environments and a dedicated room; many don’t. If your cat gets stressed easily, it’s okay to celebrate from home with enrichment and a new toy instead.
What if my dog barks or gets anxious?
Take a short break outside, offer water, and reset in your pet’s home base area. If your dog can’t settle, it’s kinder to end the experiment early and try again another time.
Make it a happy (and safe) week
The best Take Your Pet to Work Day memories come from simple wins: a calm pet, respectful coworkers, and a plan for summer heat. Keep it low-pressure, prioritize safety, and you’ll have an office story worth telling.
Want to coordinate your look with your furry “coworker”? Start with best sellers, then pick a breed vibe like the Tabby Cat Collection or Corgi Collection.