In today’s world, office environments come in many different shapes and sizes, with benefits both typical and out of the norm. There is also a growing trend, especially for startups, to expand their teams with four-legged companions. From reducing stress to creating a more welcoming atmosphere, our lovable pooches are no longer shunned and exiled to our homes, but are a welcome addition in the workplace.

For these 28 startups and organizations, their pups (and in one case kittens) help power their startup. From small tech firms to large healthy eating organizations, they each play a vital role in employee happiness and likely even retention.