In a tough economy, one free benefit companies can offer employees is allowing them to bring pets to work.

Pet owners are being forced to pinch pennies at the expense of their animals. The Humane Society of the United States reports Associated Press poll findings stating that in the last year, 17% of owners considered cutting pet day care and 27% of owners debated giving up their pet.

One way companies can boost morale without stretching budgets is to implement a bring your dog to work program. Trisha St. George, spokesperson for the Helen Woodward Animal Center in California, works in an office where people bring well-behaved animals. St. George says, "What's really nice about having pets at work ... it keeps you smiling and less stressed at the office!"

Pet Sitters International organizes an annual "Take Your Dog To Work Day," which will be held in June this year. Dog lovers searching for jobs in the meantime can check out the top 10 dog-friendly companies now hiring on the Pet Sitters International website. Google and Amazon.com rank at the top of the list.

How do feel about having pets in the workplace?