Take Your Dog to Work Day has NC roots

Friday is national Take Your Dog to Work Day, a tradition that started in North Carolina.

The day was created in 1999 by Pet Sitters International – an organization for professional pet sitters – as a way to celebrate canine companions and promote pet adoptions.

Pet Sitters International is headquartered in King, N.C., and founder Patti Moran is a lifelong resident of the state, according to the organization.

Moran said the event has grown in popularity and participants since its beginning, a sign of the important role that pets have.

"Pets make our lives better," she said in a statement. "Studies support the benefits of pet ownership, from providing companionship to reducing stress and increasing physical activity. TYDTWDay provides pet lovers with a unique way to celebrate their dogs and give back to the pet community with a special workplace event.