Do you have a four-legged coworker?

While having a dog or a cat in the office can sometimes be disruptive or messy, studies have found that office pets can reduce anxiety, which leads to a less stressful work environment. They also make the office feel like home for many people, promoting a healthier work/life balance. And taking a quick mini-break to give them some much needed attention is a good way to reset and refresh your mind.

Just be careful you don’t focus too much time on your four-legged coworker. While Spot or Mittens might be a wonderful companion, you still have a job to do and deadlines to meet.

Personally, I had an Italian Greyhound named Mia who would sleep in her bed next to my desk. Her light snores were always a soothing contrast to the tapping and clicking of my keyboard and mouse. Whenever I moved to a bigger, more comfortable chair to read, she would squeeze herself in between me and the arm of the chair before sinking into a deep sleep.

What do you think? Is your dog or cat an essential member of your office?