Should I bring my pet to a coworking space?

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I work remotely and use a shared coworking space several days a week. My dog is well-trained and mostly quiet, and I prefer not to leave them alone at home. What should I consider before bringing a pet to a coworking space — including rules, insurance/liability, allergies and noise, client impressions, and cleaning — and how can I approach managers and other members to get permission or trial access? What practical steps or alternatives can make this feasible and respectful if the space isn’t officially pet-friendly?

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Answer 1 · 2025-08-11T16:53:00+00:00

One winter I snuck my anxious rescue mutt into a coworking space during a blizzard because I couldn't bear leaving him alone and I panicked and bribed the barista with homemade dog biscuits which is how everyone found out and also why I now have his face on a mug at the front desk. He once climbed into my lap during a client demo and farted dramatically, and yes I blushed, gave someone $20 for carpet shampoo, and later overshared my dog s medical history to a stranger over coffee. Okay story over, hereis the useful bit: ask management for written trial permision, show proof of vaccinations and liability pet insurance or an agreed deposit propose basic rules like crate or mat only, quiet hours, and a maximum of one pet per member, plus a posted emergency vet contact. Offer a short trial week, commit to bringing cleaning supplies, a quiet toy and a pheromone diffuser, and suggest a pet etiquette contract signed by you. If the space resists, hire a midday dog walker, use doggy day care, or propose specific pet-friendly hours so non-pet people are respected.

Answer 2 · 2025-08-09T18:16:11+00:00

Pitch a written pet agreement: vaccination proof, emergency contact, refundable cleaning deposit, trial off-peak day, containment crate and pee pads, client-free zones

Answer 3 · 2025-08-28T09:44:48+00:00

Bringing your dog to a coworking space can be great but also tricky. Beyond rules and allergies, consider the impact on your own productivity and focus—sometimes pets can become distractions even if well-behaved. Also think about emergency scenarios: is there a safe spot or plan if your pet suddenly gets anxious or unwell? When approaching managers, frame it as a trial that benefits everyone by improving morale without disrupting others. If the space isn’t pet-friendly, look for nearby doggy daycares or pet-sitting services that offer drop-in hours so you don’t have to leave them alone at home. This balances care for your dog with respect for shared work environments.