Dog owners have been urged to take their pet to work this Friday as part of a charity event.

Borehamwood-based company Butch & Bess, with the help of healthy dog treat firm LoveSniffys, has created a national Bring Your Dog To Work Day.

Businesses across the UK will be asked to welcome their dog-loving employees with their loyal four-legged companions this Friday as part of the nationwide event.

Both businesses and individuals can make online donations of £50 and £2 to participate, with all money raised being split between All Dogs Matter, Animals Asia and Pup Aid.

Jo Amit, co-founder of Butch & Bess, said: “What really inspired Bring Your Dog To Work Day was my own experience of taking my labradoodle Laila into the office. She was such a calming influence whilst developing our first range of products. It even made me ask our building manager if I could bring her in on a regular basis, but he declined and sent Laila packing with her bed, treats and water bowl!

“We thought an annual Bring Your Dog To Work Day would be an excellent way to highlight the role dogs can play in creating a productive work environment, while raising money for three organisations that champion the rights of animals. And if you already take your dog to work, even better.”

Businesses can participate in the day by becoming an official sponsor for a minimum donation of £50, with a company logo and website link being displayed on Bring Your Dog to Work Day’s homepage.

Individuals can also bring their dogs to work, with their emplyer’s permission, and can submit a picture of their dog to be published on the official website’s gallery for £2.

Mark Hirschel, co-founder of Butch & Bess, added: “We’re absolutely certain that Bring Your Dog To Work Day participants will create a new kind of Friday feeling in the company of man’s best friend.”