Pet owners are being encouraged to take their animals to work, a move scientists say it can be good for productivity, workplace morale (士气), and the well-being of animals.

A study found that 25% of Australian women would like to keep an office pet. Sue Chaseling of Petcare Information Service said the practice of keeping office pets was good both for the people and the pets. “On the pets’ side, they are not left on their own and won’t feel lonely and unhappy,” she said. A study of major US companies showed that 73% found office pets beneficial, while 27% experienced a drop in absenteeism (缺勤).

Xarni Riggs has two cats walking around her Global Hair Salon in Paddington. “My customers love them. They are their favorites,” she said. “They are not troublesome. They know when to go and have a sleep in the sun.”

Little black BJ has spent nearly all his two years “working” at Punch Gallery in Balrnain. Owner Iain Powell said he had had cats at the gallery for 15 years. “BJ often lies in the shop window and people walking past tap on the glass,” he said.

Ms Chaseling said cats were popular in service industries because they enabled a point of conversation. But she said owners had to make sure both their co-workers and the cats were comfortable.

50. ______ of American companies are in favor of keeping office pets.

A. 73%                                          B. 27%                                                        C. 25%                                                        D. 15%

51. We know from the text that “BJ”______.

A. works in the Global Hair Salon                                          B. often greets the passers-by

C. likes to sleep in the sun                                                        D. is a two-year-old cat

52. The best title for this text would be ______.

A. Pets Help Attract Customers                                          B. Your Favorite Office Pets

C. Pets Join the Workforce                                                        D. Busy Life for Pets