Not too long ago, I came across this article: Barking Mad

In brief summary, it's a feature that talks about bringing dogs into the workplace to reduce stress and improve morale supported by some scientific studies.

Being an animal lover (my husband and I have 9 fur kids - 4 dogs, 3 cats, and 2 rats) I thought this idea was genius. I've also known folks whose dogs often accompanied them everywhere. But theatre? I wasn't so sure. Frankly, although I really liked the idea of having critters about - I didn't think it could be done. What I didn't know after reading the article... was that two of my coworkers were going to give me a real time theatre study. Come to find out - with the right critter and some advance planning, it's not only possible, but pretty awesome.

(I know, I know... there's that old rule about no kids or animals... but I'm going to save THAT rule for the stage, NOT the building.)

Our production manager doesn't come into the office without his adorable French Bulldog Shug, who has a custom built under desk pen in the production office. Our scenic charge and her carpenter other half often bring their fabulous young mutt Obi (named for Oberon OR Obi Wan Kenobi OR both, depending on who you ask... :) into the shop, who hangs out in a puppy crate during shop hours in the office and makes appearances at break and lunch.

Both dogs can make all the difference to a day for me - especially when I come up against some stress, long tech days, or - the flip side - a long day of nothing to do. Stopping by the p.m.'s office now doesn't just involve bearing bad news or updating a project, but getting a dose of Shug. Break time in the shop can involve frisbee with a rambunctious puppy. For me, and all those who love dogs, its a little balm to the soul.

What makes having these dogs at work work, is that these pup owners are very conscious of their dogs and the work environment. Neither dog comes into contact with things they shouldn't (chemicals, power tools, or random props). It's great for the dogs. Both pups get far more exercise and attention than they would hanging out at home - even in a crate. Their owners are there, and they get lots of socialization with other people. Certainly my dogs don't get to go out or have some attention every couple of hours during a work day! Maybe the biggest key - folks who don't want dog contact (for whatever reason) don't have to have it. Both dogs are limited in private offices except for walks and breaks, and when they are out, their owners keep them out from underfoot.

Now, I've often brought one of my dogs with me on a brief work place field trip to pick up something, drop something off, or check on a burn, and of course the rats were theatre regulars getting their 15 seconds as part of the cast of Dracula, but I haven't brought one of the kids to work on a regular basis.

Who knows? I might just be joining the canine work crew!