Why I Didn’t Take My Dog to Work Today

Why I Didn’t Take My Dog to Work Today

I wanted my first proper blog post to introduce me, the dogs, and what Tails from the Toolbox is all about.

But, as it tends to go in rescue, that plan quickly took a backseat to something more urgent: a call for donations to save two dogs—Lana and Mirko—who needed immediate help.

First things first, always.

Now that we’re here, though, let me back up and start properly.

I’m Russ. I’ve adopted two Boxers from Saving Balkan Boxer Dogs—Charlie (turning 3 in September) and Elsie (who just turned 1 in February). I support SBBD in lots of ways—applications, transport, behaviour, calm words when it all feels a bit much. A cog in a very busy machine.

I’m also part of something much bigger—a community of adopters, fosterers, and supporters who care fiercely and act quietly. And I’m proud of all we do together.

This blog is my small way of giving back—sharing what I’ve learned through living with rescue dogs, working with volunteers, and most of all, listening. To the dogs.

It’s “Bring Your Dog to Work Day”...

Sounds fun, right? Wholesome. Social. Instagrammable.

But I didn’t take mine.

Not because they’re badly behaved, or because I couldn’t. I didn’t take them because they didn’t need to go.

Dogs Don’t Crave Novelty

They don’t dream of co-working desks, or pub lunches, or new people saying “who’s a good boy?”

They want what they’ve always wanted: Familiarity. Security. Predictability.

That’s their anchor. That’s their peace.

They Live in the Now

That’s their gift. And the “now” is safest when it’s quiet and clear.

They don’t rationalise why the floor smells like printer toner or why there’s a random beagle behind a glass door.

They just know it’s different. And difference takes effort.

Do you know where my two Boxers are happiest? On the kitchen tiles. At home.

Not meeting new people. Not being fussed over. Just stretched out, cool and content, knowing exactly what to expect next.

Yes, We Did Go on Holiday

In May, we went on a short staycation. But not on a whim.

I’d been watching them—carefully—for months.

Reading body language. Testing little changes. Building trust.

They were ready. So we went. Not just with them, but for us—all of us. Together.

And we made it easy: shorter journey, quiet setting, familiar routines. It worked. Not because dogs love holidays—because they felt safe doing it with us.

Day 1 of Staycation - Home from Home - but with things we don't have at home!

Do Dogs Even Need Walks?

Let’s talk about the sacred cow of dog ownership: the daily walk.

Yes, they’re useful—when they serve the dog. But let’s be honest: no dog ever died from missing a walk. Many have been injured or overwhelmed because of them. Many have even died!

Dogs don’t need constant outings or excitement. They need:

• Familiar space

• Calmness

• Time to sniff, rest, and feel safe

That’s it. Less really is more. It always is...

These aren’t lazy options—they’re natural behaviours. They build confidence and contentment.

What This Post Is Really About

Permission.

To do what’s right for your dog. Not what tradition, social media, or strangers expect.

“Dogs should go everywhere with you.”

“They need daily adventures.”

“They’ll get bored at home.”

Will they? Or are we projecting?

Some dogs love novelty. Most don’t. And that’s not a failure. That’s just... truth.

“Your dog will always guide you—if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.”

My Dogs Are Happy

Charlie and Elsie have no idea it’s Bring Your Dog to Work Day.

They don’t know what day it is at all.

But they know the cool tiles. They know my calm voice. They know they’re safe.

That’s all they need. And I’m proud to protect it.

Thanks for reading,

Russ 🐾

Scout’s honour. Paw on heart.