One of the best benefits of my work is that I get to have my two dogs with me all day. While there are times they can be annoying (why does a squirrel run by the window the moment I get on the phone?), I can’t imagine my days without them.

An article on CNBC.com cited a 2015 Society for Human Resource Management survey that found that eight percent of work places in the U.S. let employees bring their dogs (and sometimes other pets) to work. There are even some organizations, like Google, that offer pet insurance as a benefit.

What do we get out of this, besides saving on pet sitters and pee pads? A lot, according to articles in USNews, Entrepreneur, and Inc.:

• Office pets are shown to largely reduce stress for both the owner and other employees.
• Pets help boost collaboration because pet owners have a shared interest.
• Pets can help boost morale, especially when under a lot of pressure.
• Pets who need attention (like walks) help get people away from their desk for a few minutes a few times a day, and we all know how important that is.

Of course, there are cons, too: some people may have allergies to pets, or simply don’t like them. Animals may not like each other, or play too hard with one another, both of which could wreak havoc on an otherwise peaceful office environment.

Overall, though, those I know who are able to bring their four-legged or two-winged best friend to work find it to be a great perk.

Has your job gone to the dogs? Share your experience in comments.