The battle for talent post-lockdown has encouraged firms to do more to make staff feel at home when they come into work. Now magic circle outfit Slaughter and May has taken the home comforts one step further – by letting lawyers bring their dogs into the office.

This Friday, the firm will hold its first trial of the idea, and if it proves to be a success then it will be extended to the last Friday of the month over the summer.

Naturally, the plan comes with certain guidelines to protect those who may not be comfortable with canines – staff will be asked if they object to having dogs around and the visitors will not be allowed in certain areas such as the canteen, coffee pods and meeting rooms. 

But the idea is that man’s best friend will be staff’s best workmate, putting a smile on faces and giving people another incentive to come into work (rail strikes permitting).

Deborah Finkler, managing partner, said: ‘I have long been an advocate of having our dogs in the office and so am delighted that we are trialling Slaughter and May’s first ever Bring your Dog to Work Day.

‘The benefits of all animals and especially dogs to mental health, morale and alleviating stress are widely recognised, and I also hope that the trial makes for a fun and sociable day.’

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