Why We Need Dogs in Our Law Offices

Choosing a career in the field of law can often mean signing oneself up for chronic stress, depression, and other mental health problems. 25% of female lawyers consider a profession change due to the burnout, mental health outcomes, and stress of the job. Chronic stress is a very common and very dangerous affliction. Stress can kill brain cells, spike cholesterol, blood pressure, unhealthy fat, and even unravel our chromosomes.

What can we do about this chronic stress and poor mental health? The answer may be one furry animal with four legs and a wagging tail. That’s right, I’m talking about dogs!

Dogs are more than cute, family-oriented pets. Studies have shown that dogs can reduce PTSD symptoms, stress, depression, anxiety, and lower cholesterol levels.

source: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/mood-boosting-power-of-dogs.htm

After office and work-space transformations from the pandemic, many companies and law firms have started to explore alternative options to the 9-to-5, cubicle farm life. As people start to return back to the office, one way to help alleviate stress for lawyers and other high-stress professionals could be by having a pet-friendly space. Of course, some people may have allergies to dogs, or just not like them! It’s always important to be aware of your employee’s comfort level about allowing pets in the office. For lawyers in a large, corporate setting, it may not be feasible to allow everyone’s dogs to the office. On the other hand, at a small law firm like Egan Law Center, having a dog that can hang out in our office and can be an excuse to go on walks throughout the day could have huge impacts on our well-being and mental health.

Lindsey has two adorable dogs: Lola and Molly. Perhaps now that these studies have come out about pet-friendly office spaces, we’ll have a furry friend joining us occasionally at the office!