OFFICES need to be made “dog friendly” after hundreds of thousands of Brits bought puppies in lockdown, the RSPCA has warned.
It is feared new owners could abandon their animals when they are forced to return to their desks unless we change the workplace.
Experts say everyone should have the option to bring their pooches with them and leave them in a “dog friendly” area with food and water.
They advised removing electric cords, wastepaper bins and other obstructions to make them safe.
The Dogs Trust has received calls from 1,800 people wanting to hand over dogs younger than one in the past three months.
In total 3.2million households got a pet in lockdown bringing total ownership of at least one animal to 17.2million across the UK.
There are now 34million pets including 12million dogs, 12million cats, 3.2million small mammals, 3million birds and 1.5million reptiles.
RSPCA dog welfare expert Lisa Hens said: "Our dogs have got used to having us around all the time and can struggle with changes to their routine.
“It's really important that we plan ahead for returning to normal life post-lockdown.
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"We'd love to see more offices introducing Dogs at Work policies to allow owners to bring their dogs into the workplace and would encourage public transport providers to make it easier for passengers to travel with dogs.
"If you're planning to return to work after the 19th July then we'd urge you to start preparing your dog and to introduce spending time home alone in a gradual, controlled and positive way. “
The RSPCA believes having dogs at work can help staff wellbeing as they release “happy hormones” when they are stroked.
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