Every weekday small business owners head off to work, reluctantly reassuring their furry canine friends they will be back. For others, life at work means having a little canine companionship. According to The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association survey of working adults, nearly one in five U.S. companies allows pets at work.

Pets have positive effects on human health and productivity. A study of high stressed stockbrokers at the State University of New York discovered reduced stress levels for pet-owning brokers on high blood pressure medication. The simple act of petting a dog increases the stress reducing hormones of the brain. It's just what the Vet can order to help your staff handle the stress of cold-calling, deal with tough customer relations, or improve your workplace creativity. If your office doesn't allow dogs, consider Pet Sitters International's Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 23rd.