Picture this: You're at work and your boss has just snapped at you for messing something up.
You're trying really hard not to make it look like you're upset about the situation and are putting on a brave face.
Then, just when you're no longer able to hold back the tears, a cat or dog appears before you, in search of affection.
The worry is instantly forgotten as you melt at the sight of this adorable creature, because honestly, who could stay stressed with a little cutie like that around?!
That's a rhetorical question of course, but according to researchers pets can help reduce stress and help make people more motivated when at work.
Marie-José Enders studies the relationship between humans and animals at the Open University and spoke to Business Insider about the benefits of having pets in the workplace.
She said: "It's definitely good for the work atmosphere to have a dog in the office.
"Not only does your cortisol level drop when you stroke a dog; you also produce more of the hormone oxytocin, which makes you feel more relaxed and happy."
She added: "If your boss is giving you a hard time, a dog can make it easier to put certain situations into perpective. You can just take a bit of space and walk the dog.
"An animal at work makes people more motivated - they like their work more and they experience less stress."
Behavioural psychologist Lotte Spijkerman agreed and added that cats can also have the same psychological effect on people.
"They reduce stress and increase productivity, mainly because they interact with you of their own accord and, when they pop over to your work station, it's a good reminder that you might need to take a break," she told the publication.
And what about other animals, you ask?
According to the experts, the psychological effect of smaller pets such as hamsters, is less profound, but it still can improve your mood - especially if you don't want to take a dog for a walk.
Meanwhile Spijkerman says that fish can also be a good choice, as it's quite relaxing to watch them swim around in a tank.
So no matter which animal you prefer, it's clear to see that any of them would be beneficial to have around in the office. Maybe it's time to have a little chat with your boss...
