June 24 is National Take Your Dog To Work Day. Time to work like a dog.

Here at the law firm, more often than not our team is joined by at least one furry four-legger. Even though our dogs have been implicated in the occasional workplace indiscretion (scones wrapped in paper bags have disappeared mysteriously from employee desks; a new office rug was "christened" most unceremoniously) and their conference call etiquette leaves much to be desired, they bring companionship and a little bit of levity to our daily office life. Working with our dogs alongside us is not only a privilege, but an important part of our identity and purpose in our animal law practice.

Dog-friendly workplaces are becoming more common as businesses cite studies that show the presence of a dog can increase camaraderie among co-workers, decrease employee stress, and contribute to job satisfaction. Some companies, such as Google, now offer pet insurance as part of their employee benefits package.

Law firms and law schools are even going to the dogs: Yale Law School's therapy-dog program started in 2011, and other programs across the country have followed in their foot— or rather, paw-steps. Here in Birmingham, AL, Cumberland School of Law dedicates an entire day to celebrate the life of Rascal, the honorary "Doctor of Canine Jurisprudence," during which dogs are welcome to attend class with their student owners before parading and picnicking on the law school campus.

There are important legal considerations for business owners who offer a dog-friendly workplace, including issues of liability and insurance. Establishing a written pet policy ahead of time that addresses these issues, along with health and safety concerns for both employees and their animals is the first step in cultivating a positive, dog-friendly working environment.

Even if your dog is not joining you at work, in Birmingham, you and your pup can still celebrate later in the day. Big Communications has partnered with Trim Tab Brewing Co. for a Take Your Dog to Work Day event from 4-7 p.m. The Greater Birmingham Humane Society's adoption truck will be also be on-site.

Big Communications

2121 2nd Ave. North

Birmingham, AL 35203

Happy Take Your Dog To Work Day from the Angie Ingram Law and Paw Review team!