Posted By GPspeed can anyone advise the legal position of an employee or company owner bringing a dog into work, either office or workshop please

Posted By Nick House Not sure of the legal perspective on this, but have you taken into consideration the fact that some people may have allergies to animal fur? Also, no matter how much care an owner takes, dogs often carry fleas, which can and do transfer to carpets and upholstery. The result? Potential escalation in 'bites' to staff in general. Also, some people have a natural fear of dogs, and having them in the workplace may not be condusive to their stress levels. Even more unsure about having animals in a workshop environment, just think of the inherent risks invlved... Obviously, concessions need to be made for guide dogs and 'hearing dogs, etc., but generally, I would advise against having pets of any kind in the workplace.

Posted By GPspeed the dog is there because of a concession to the employee. There are no fur allegies and the dog is well behaved and well loved by everyone. Not sure how it would stand if (1) the employee was told he couldnt bring the dog to work (2) if someone say, tripped over the dog even though everyone agreed to its presence.

Posted By David A Jones why introduce a risk you don't have to?

Posted By Andy Petrie Given that dogs often reduce stress in the workplace it is probably an advantage to have it there. We have visits from a 'PAT' dog every few months where you get to stroke him, in return for a donation. The money then supports the PAT programme where animals are taken into hospitals & care homes to help people with their recovery. The mood in the office is much better on the days when the dog comes round. With regards to introducing risks, if the dog is good natured and well looked after there's nothing to worry about. My dad has his dog in his shop all day, and customers love it, infact some people come to the shop just to see the dog.

Posted By Frank Hallett Hi Mike - not quite what I meant but an interesting insight into a pragmatic approach. Let's hope that it's a really big short-haired dog! Frank Hallett

Posted By Nick House .....even though I initially advised against it, I know our situation well enough to be able to appreciate that it would be of no added risk, and that it would go down well with staff. The only downside to this would be if several people had the same idea, and certain dogs did not get on with each other (as often happens). In that instance, how would you manage a policy dictating that some dogs were allowed in, and some weren't....

Posted By David Kimmins This link may help http://www.imgag.com/product/full/ap/3030271/