Forget cats and hamsters. Been there done that. How about adopting a furry little chinchilla? Or if you’re anxious to clip a leash onto a dog but have allergies, how about a potbellied pig? A potbellied pig must be a great companion – actor George Clooney's longest relationship was with a potbellied pig.

Trends in pets change every few years and currently chinchillas and their furry rabbit friends are topping the list, explained Dr. Thomas Silverhorn of the Norton Animal Hospital. As more people complain of allergies symptoms, dander-free pigs are climbing the list as well.

We've had some great president and a few stinkers, too. Throughout it all Presidential pets have played a vital role 

Fala Roosevelt may have been the most celebrated dog in U.S. Presidential history. He was a Scottish terrier and he accompanied President Franklin D. Roosevelt everywhere, eating his meals in Roosevelt’s study, going along on campaign swings and sleeping in a chair at the foot of the President’s bed. He spent hours of idle time in the Oval Office.

With the right training, a mature dog can get a second chance

Dawn Archibald-Corby was volunteering at the Scituate Animal Shelter when she fell in love with a one-year-old black Lab and German shepherd mix who had been brought in when her owners moved and left her behind. The dog, Maxine, was pregnant when she came to the shelter and eventually gave birth to nine puppies. Archibald-Corby said she knew she wasn't ready for a puppy. "Puppies are like little kids; they’re just all over the place. You have to realize you’re taking on a baby,” she said.

There are more and more companies allowing their employees to bring their dogs to work with them.  That means no more guilt trips when you leave the house in the morning!  No more tears as you watch that sad furry face in the window as you back out of the driveway!  No more expense of doggie daycare and in-home sitters.  It really is a win-win situation.  The dog loves being able to accompany their owner everywhere they go, and the owner gets the added benefit of great stress-relief with their furry friend right at their feet while they work. The official "Take Your Dog To Work Day" is June 20th each year, for more information on this annual event, go to: www.takeyourdog.com.  I was lucky enough to attend the "Take Your Dog To Work Day" festivities at a local company, SmartPak, based in Plymouth, MA.  Pictures of many of their furry 'employees' are shown here.  Each has a very important position with the company...to keep their employee-owners' happy and stress free!