Dogs aren't dubbed a man's best friend for nothing, with their wagging tails, fluffy coats, face licks and snuggles.
Researchers have discovered our furry friends trigger the part of the human brain responsible for emotional attachment.
For a dog like Gilbert, coming to the dentist isn't a daunting task, but for others it is. That's why the six-year-old golden retriever is there to help - he's a therapy dog.
"It makes it easier to get fillings and stuff when he's here," one person said.
"A simple pat to alleviate the anxiety of a visit to the so-called murder house," another added.
Researchers have determined that petting dogs is good for your health.
A team at the University of Basel in Switzerland monitored the brain activity of participants while they interacted with a dog compared to a plush toy.
The real deal led to higher activity in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, which regulates and processes social and emotional interactions.
The proof really is in the patting, if you ask the dentist where Gilbert helps out.
"Having a dog in the clinic is amazing, dogs are really calming. They seem to have a sense of reading what's going on for people.
"There is just something in the air that they seem to know when people are anxious and can read what's going to work."
Gilbert has even convinced people to walk through the doors, like Jeremy.
"I enjoyed coming to the dentist when I saw him here."
The team of researchers hopes that better therapies can be designed for patients by harnessing the power of the dog.
