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Embarking On a New Adventure

As I previously wrote, I spent the past two years as the editor-in-chief of a pet industry trade publication, which left little time for me to write about my life with Toby, or really, do anything else. 

It was a long two years that felt like 20 years, to be honest. But, I wouldn’lt change it for the world. The experiences I had, the career I built because of it, the new skills I learrned, the people I got to meet, the places I traveled … really the list could go on and on. 

Tomorrow starts a new chapter in our lives, and I use the word our, because it impacts Toby, too. It will be the first time ever that I will be working from home full-time.
I say full-time, because working from home has really never been an option for me at any stage of my career. A few years back I was at a company where it was possible, but there were so many meetings, it really wasn’lt feasible. I did it when I could, and got so much work done on those days it was amazing. I also did it when I got laid off and was consulting/freelancing, but that was also a bit different. 
But, this is a bit new for everyone involved, because for the most part, I will always be around. Yes, there is a good amount of travel involved, but most days, I will be here — sitting at my desk typing away, researching, writing, making phone calls and doing my job. 
I know I work really well like this, but I am a little nervous about how Toby is going to do. It will be inevitable that I will at least once bark while I am on a conference call. But, I am not as worried about how he will be while I am here, as much as I am when I am not. 
Toby is very susceptible to separation anxiety. He had it when he was a puppy and we nabbed it inthe butt. I could see how being with me all day for weeks on end and then leavingt o go on a business trip, could be a bit much for him, despite the fact that in most cases he will be at my Dad’s, a place he absolutely loves and grew up in. 
One thing I am pretty excited about is being able to spend more time with him. I know it sounds silly, but it is nice to know that I can walk over and give him a hug on my way to the bathroom. Or, just the simple task of looking over and seeing him on his bed while I am typing away. 
I think this new career choice will not only be good for me, but also for him. I am a big believer that pets — even if it is a desktop aquarium — should be allowed in workplaces. There are tons of studies that show the benefits. 
So, tell me a little about your situation. Do you work from home with your dog at your feet? What are some suggestions for making it a good working environment?
Or, does your employer let you bring your pet to work? How does that impact the rest of the office?

One thought on “Embarking On a New Adventure

  1. I hope that your new job is everything you want and more. I will be honest and say that I hope your new job allows you to take time to write every now and then on this blog. This is the place that I met you and Toby. Although it was virtually , I still felt as though I knew you both and was ecstatic to see you at pet conferences. I miss the little adventures that I would read about Toby and you. I look forward to reading more posts.
    Congratulations on your new job. I wish you the best!

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