Denise Van Sickel wants workplaces throughout Lawrence to go to the dogs.

Van Sickel, owner of the Lawrence Pet Friends pet-sitting service, is working to boost awareness of Take Your Dog to Work Day, a nationwide event set for Friday.

Sponsored by Pet Sitters International, the event encourages employers to allow their employees to bring pooches to work. Van Sickel has been working with the Lawrence Humane Society to educate people about the value of having four-legged friends in the workplace.

One in five companies allow pets in the workplace, according to a 2006 survey conducted for the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. The survey results included support from employees who maintain that having dogs at work leads to a more creative environment, decreased absenteeism, improved productivity and improved co-worker relations.

Workers whose companies do not allow dogs at work are encouraged to bring pictures of their dogs to work Friday, organizers said.

Businesses interested in registering for the event may do so by clicking on www.petsit.com/tydtwd.