Always keen to promote responsible dog ownership, the Blue Cross animal welfare charity have, for the last 11 years, organised Take Your Dog To Work Day. The event this year is to take place on Tuesday 19 September 2006. With Britons working the longest hours in Europe, this event hopes to encourage people not to leave their dogs at home alone for prolonged periods. It also highlights the very positive effects that pets have on the mental and physical well being of people around them.

As well as promoting responsible dog ownership, the event raises funds for the Blue Cross, allowing it to continue its work caring for unwanted and sick pets. The Blue Cross provides practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners and also provides veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford it, though its veterinary hospitals.

With thousands of dog owners taking part last year, the Take Your Dog To Work Day has its share of celebrity supporters, including Jay Kay from Jamiroquai; TV presenters Kirsty Gallacher and Johnny Vaughan. Johnny commented on his support for this event, "It’s not until you lose, or nearly lose your dog you really appreciate how important they’ve become. Unconditional love, always pleased to see you, always there for you, never judge you - happiest when they’re just hanging out with you - the definition of friendship."

Registrations for the 2006 event are now open so if you want to take part, or to find out more about it visit www.takeyourdogtoworkday.org.uk. You can fill out the online registration form and the Blue Cross will send you an information pack full of tips on how to make the day a success for you, your dog and your work colleagues. Registration is free, but you will be asked to fundraise for the charity.