Are YOU Going to BlogPaws? Let Me Know!

Wooooohooooo! Why am I so excited? Because I just registered (FINALLY) for BlogPaws! I know, I know... I've been very delayed in registering because I was concerned about my work schedule allowing me to go... But then I came to a realization: work will still be there when I get back. And I seriously can't wait to go to my first BlogPaws to meet many of you wonderful other bloggers in person!

I want to know, who else is going to BlogPaws? Leave a comment and let me know! I want to make sure I get to meet each and every one of you who keep me so entertained and inspired! (Yes, that's you)!

The Puparazzi's Newest iPhone Obsession

Banjo & Millie wish I had never gotten an iPhone. It's a miracle neither of them have snatched it out of my hand as I've continually shoved it in their face for incessant snapshots. Here's my latest iPhone app obsession, Wordfoto.

Work Like.. err, I mean... With a Dog

The Economist

Did you know that Take Your Dog to Work Day is coming up this Friday, June 24th? That’s right, friends. There’s a day out there dedicated to bringing your pet along as you work like a dog. I absolutely love this idea, started by Pet Sitters International in 1999, that aims to celebrate not only the unfaltering companionship of our dogs, but also to encourage adoption of homeless animals.  

As many of you know, Banjo already goes to work every day as a therapy dog, and we are highly aware of just how important his presence is in helping the people he interacts with. But taking your dog to work is beneficial on so many levels. It’s good for you, the dog, your coworkers, and your clients/customers.

I know WE all know just how valuable our pets are in keeping us healthy and productive, but just in case your boss doesn’t, here is some background information on pets in the workplace and just a few interesting facts about just how much potential having dogs present has on the success of your business: 

Some Barkground Background

• A survey by the American Pet Products Association Manufacturers found that 20% of companies now have pet-friendly policies. (Source)
• A recent Associated Press poll found that in the past year, 17 percent of pet owners have had to consider cutting back on day care for their animals and 27 percent have seriously considered giving up their pet. (Source)
• In 2005, about 10,000 companies participated in Take Your Dog to Work Day, way up from the 300 who participated the first time in 1999, according to Pet Sitters International, indicating that bringing your dog to work is more than just a fad. (Source)

Benefits to Business

• In a tough economy with disappearing benefits, pet-friendly policies are a free perk employers can offer to attract and retain employees. (Source)
• Employers who allow pets in the workplace have employees who are willing to work longer hours, and research shows that allowing employees to bring their dogs to work decreases absenteeism. (Source)
• Research shows that dogs break down barriers and help to build relationships between employees.
• A recent study conducted by Central Michigan University found that when dogs were present in a group, employees were more likely to trust each other and collaborate more effectively in the office. (Source)
• Studies suggest that allowing dogs in the workplace allow for a more productive work environment. (Source)
• Pet-friendly policies make pet-loving employees feel valued (because if they care about your pet, they care about you).
• Dogs in the workplace serve as good potential crime deterrents.
• Employers who have pet-friendly policies often see increased motivation and creativity from their employees.
• Pet-friendly policies are good PR opportunities.

Benefits to You

• Owners are less stressed about their dog being left home alone all day or don’t have to spend extra money on a dog walker or doggie day care.
• 75 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace makes people happier. (Source)
• 41 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace helps co-workers get along better. (Source)
• Allowing pets in the workplace helps employees to maintain a work-life balance and flexibility. (Source)
• Having your pet by your side helps to lower stress and anxiety. (Source)
• Allowing pets at work strengthens the bond between people and their pets. (Source)
• Dogs provide an element of humor and perspective throughout the long workday (Source)

Benefits to Fido

• Dogs aren’t left home alone all day (which leads to a happier, less destructive dog).
• Allowing pets at work strengthens the bond between people and their pets. (Source)
• Bringing your dog to work will not only make your dog happy, but it could also increase dog adoptions nationwide. Research has shown that one of the main reasons people decide not to adopt pets is because they are too often away at work. (Source)
• Bringing your dog to work introduces them to a new environment, people and experiences, helping make for a more well-adjusted, social canine. (Source)

Of course, there are some downsides and obstacles to having pets in the workplace, but I am of course biased and believe that benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. (Check out some of the articles listed below to read about some of those drawbacks.) I in no way believe that it’s right for all people, all dogs, or all companies, but definitely believe that given the right circumstances, pets in the workplace are a win-win for everyone. If you are an employer who is considering implementing a “pets at work” policy, or if you’re like me and just wish you could convince your employer of the benefits, check out the Humane Society’s guidebook to creating pet-friendly workplaces, Dogs at Work: A Practical Guide to Creating Dog-Friendly Workplaces. 

Take Your Dog.com

Interested in reading more? Check out the following articles:

Dogs Allowed: Creature Comforts at the Workplace (USA Today)

Work Has Gone to the Dogs (AARP)

Pets in the Office (HR Hero)

The Pitter Patter of Paws Lightens the Tension of Governing (Washington Post)

Recent Study Affirms Benefits of Dogs in the Workplace (Humane Society)

Business Casual Goes to the Dogs (ABC News)

Manager's Best Friend (The Economist)

New Study Suggests Bringing Dogs to Work May Increase Social Cohesion (Psychology Today)

Pets in the Workplace: Dog Days or Cat's Meow? (Indiana Business Journal)

Taking Dogs to Work (VPI Pet Insurance)

Millie's Own Commercial Debut

Ok, ok... I realize this isn't actually her commercial debut. But is it just me, or do you think this could be a commercial for PetSmart? Millie has all the makings of being a dog star. Just look at that face. Really. Perhaps I should send to PetSmart.


Millie's PetSmart Commercial from Banjo and Millie on Vimeo.

Two Non-Dog Related Commercials that Remind Me of Millie

These commercials have nothing to do with dogs. Or animals at all. But they both make me laugh out loud because they both remind me of Millie and her mischievous ways... Are there any commercials out there that remind you of your dog and their antics?

The first one is a USPS Commercial. Every time I turn around, Millie is mysteriously right behind me (even when she was no where in sight 2 seconds prior). I actually find myself jump a bit just like this commercial. I think she has some creepy super powers.



The second one is a Sour Patch Kid commercial. No explanation needed.

Wordless Wednesday: One Sorry Beagle.

Poor Banjo. The little man didn't get to go to work and when his Dad pulled out of the driveway, this is the sorry sight of the poor pup left behind. Since his second favorite thing to do (a close second to going to work) is lie lazily around for hours on end, he got over it pretty fast and nestled in for a full day of blanket snuggle time. Yes indeed, poor Banjo.

Fidos After Five!

I've said it before and I'll say it again: We are so fortunate to live in such dog-friendly city! There's pretty much an event or place we can count on taking the furkids every week. This week, we headed over to Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden for their summer Fidos After Five in which the garden stays open after hours for live music, wine, and of course, pets welcome! We braved one of the hottest evenings of the year thus far (it was 90+ at 7pm when we got there!) and strolled the Gardens as the sun went down. Banjo and Millie lapped up plenty of water, courtesy of their buddy Ru who was also there (yes, I actually forgot to take water - I'm a bad Mom), and we all lazed in the grass as the band played. Particularly exciting was the Garden's summer exhibit, an amazing stick sculpture dwelling designed by artist Patrick Dougherty. If you're in RVA, this is not to miss. And if you want to bring your dog along, make sure you go on July 14th or August 11th for the next Fidos After Five night!

Check out the super cool video of how the artist constructed the exhibit. I'm fascinated! Millie didn't seem to really notice.

Doghouses We Wouldn't Mind Being In.

What comes to mind when you think of a doghouse? A place you go when you've done something bad? Well, with these simply amazing doghouses, I'm afraid I would never want to be good so I could spend my time in my sweet doghouse crib! I think Banjo definitely needs a bachelor pad. And knowing how much Millie loves her cheap plastic crate, she would feel like royalty in one of these bad boys (or at least, I would feel like she would)!

**I found all of these amazing dog houses from various Dog Milk posts. If you aren't familiar with Dog Milk, you absolutely must be. This blog is amazing! Also, disclaimer: I can take no credit for photos, and I have no idea who should. Sorry!

Check it out here.

Check it out here.

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Check it out here.

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Check it out here.

Check it out here.

Wordless Wednesday: Millie the Conductor!

I'm not sure why, but Millie reminds me of some grand orchestra conductor in this video. She's a very talented little girl, my Millie!


Millie the Conductor from Banjo and Millie on Vimeo.

Banjo & Millie's Newest Addition

That's right, we have a new addition to our household. And his name is Pablo... Let me back up and tell you how we met Mr. Pablo and his introduction to our home!

Some of you may have read about my involvement with FETCH a Cure, a local organization that raises money for canine (and feline) cancer awareness/research. This past weekend was its biggest fundraiser, the Pets on Parade Gala, which took place Friday night at the Science Museum. Leading up to this event, artists paint and decorate large steel pups that are then auctioned off at the gala to raise money for Companions in Crisis, the wonderful FETCH financial assistance program to help families pay for treatment and care.

These steel pups spend their days stationed around Carytown (thanks to these kind "foster home" organizations: All Fired Up, Nacho Mama's, The VEC, Ellwood Cafe, Mezzanine, Mongrel, Pink, Murphies, Helping Hands, Franklin Goose, and World of Mirth) leading up to the big event to help generate excitement about the upcoming fundraiser, and on the night of the gala, they are the stars of the show on the auction block.

Needless to say, I was quite surprised when my husband raised his bid number on the last pup of the night, "Picasso Pup," designed by artist Jessica Norris. Inspired by the recent, highly successful Picasso exhibit at the VMFA, Jessica used the master himself's style to create a pup that honors Picasso's love of his own dachshund, Lump. Going once, going twice, SOLD to the two crazy dog lovers in the back (that's us)!

We couldn't be more excited to not only have one of these unique pieces in our home, but we are so happy to be able to contribute to FETCH a Cure's cause. Not only was the event itself a blast, but we got to hang out with other pet lovers in the area, like our friends over at Richmond Pet Lovers and the Richmond Animal League! All in all, a great night for a great cause.

And without further ado, meet Pablo!

Wordless Wednesday: Frosty Paw Goodness

On this crazy hot first day of June, we hope you enjoy this video of the pups devouring Frosty Paws! Somehow Brie and Wally remain pristine while little Mildred, of course, looks like she dove headfirst into the ice cream. Well done, little Millie.

Frosty Paws, Frosty Paws! from Banjo and Millie on Vimeo.