Rover can come to work today

Billie Jo Mouren originally planned to use the expansive back seat of her Lincoln Navigator for lugging around the cabinets she designs and builds, but her 11-month-old puppy, Baby, has since taken over the area.

Aided by a special car seat complete with a mini-leash, the 10-pound miniature pinscher/pug mix accompanies her “mommy” to job sites every day of the week and serves as a driving companion when she makes frequent business trips to San Francisco. Today, proclaimed Take Your Dog to Work Day by Pet Sitters International, the drill will be no different.

“This is her condo,” Mouren said, pointing to the mound of doggy toys, waterproof padding and climbing boxes that fill the space where Baby romps while her owner is on site.

“I take her everywhere and she’s even trained to go wee wee on this little blankey.”

Mouren, a Newport Beach resident, knows the benefits of having a canine companion at work and en route.

“It’s 10 times more fun than if I was by myself,” she said. “It’s like having a boyfriend with none of the trouble.”

Pet Sitters International started Take Your Dog to Work Day in 1999 hoping to celebrate dogs as companions while boosting employee morale and encouraging pet adoptions. The group anticipates that thousands of businesses across the country will participate today.

“Taking your dog to work has many benefits, such as reducing absenteeism and creating a more creative and productive work environment,” said John Long, a spokesman for the organization. “We have seen a growth in participation and interest year after year.”

There is some preparation required before pet owners can tote their pooches safely to the office. Lisa and Nelson Neyer of Beach Cities Bark Busters — Baby’s “lifetime trainers and advocates” — offer several tips for those who don’t want to leave their canine companions at home.

“You need to know your dog’s personality and how he behaves when you take him to other homes or out in public before you take him into your workplace,” Lisa Neyer said.

Employees should also consult their bosses to make sure animals are allowed in the building, and ensure colleagues do not have animal allergies, she said, adding that the animal should be up to date on all immunizations and should wear ID tags and a leash at all times.

With the Neyers’ help, Baby has learned to heel and to curb her barking, which for the most part sounds like a gentle twitter.

“She makes every sound she can make without barking because she knows she can’t,” Mouren said as Baby peered inquisitively at her from her car seat. “She’s my good little girl.”

To learn more about Pet Sitters International and Take Your Dog to Work Day, go to www.petsit.com . For information on Bark Busters in the area, go to www.barkbusters.com or call (877) 500-BARK.