After a stressful call with a client, you pet your cat until your blood pressure returns to normal. Across the room, your coworker just submitted a report and is now taking his dog for a walk. For some of us, it’s just another day at the office.

Nearly 20 percent of U.S. companies allow pets in the workplace. Surveys show that employees in these offices are more productive and less stressed, in part because they don’t have to rush home for pet care. Whatever the reason, less stress translates into better health and fewer days away from work.

Studies of workers performing a group task with or without a dog on duty have also shown that those with a canine companion exhibited more trust and teamwork.

So if the law and your company allows, you could be among those packing your pet up for work. It gives a whole new meaning to the phrase, “working like a dog.”