BLOOMINGTON -- It was midmorning Friday when mailman Dennis Gerdes opened the door to Specs Around Town and was greeted by Lennie, a one-dog welcoming committee.

Gerdes smiled and bent down to pet the 4-year-old Shih Tzu belonging to downtown Bloomington business owner Julie Kubsch.

Friday was the 10th annual Take Your Dog to Work Day, created by Pet Sitters International to celebrate dogs as companions and encourage their adoption from shelters.

Kubsch, who brings Lennie to her shop at 317 N. Center St. daily, thinks other merchants should consider doing the same in order to create a more relaxed business environment and build workplace morale. A dog at work is beneficial provided it is well trained, Kubsch said, adding that Lennie also relaxes her, making her more creative and productive.

"I think Lennie brings in business. We have people who stop in just to say 'hi' to him," said Kubsch.

Dogs at work are also popular at Bloomington's Creative Kitchens and Baths, 1102 Eastport Drive.

Co-owner Ryan Thoennes takes his 3-year-old Rottweiler, Marley, to work every day.

Employee Blake Cottrell brings boxers Beau or Ellie to work daily as well. One dog comes in the morning and the other in the afternoon.

"They are good for our morale," Thoennes said. He also believes the dogs are good for business as they provide a connection with customers who like dogs.

The canine companions at Creative Kitchens are kept toward the back of the showroom so customers who don't want to interact with them are not obligated.

At Specs Around Town, Lennie might be taken for a walk or put in his carrier in the back of the shop if customers are uneasy or allergic.

Lennie has his favorite visitors. A FedEx driver, for instance, regularly brings him treats and Lennie seems to be able to sense when the driver will be arriving.

"He also likes children, and babies in strollers," Kubsch said. She said one child has been overheard asking his mother if they can visit "Lennie's house of glasses."