As Take Your Dog to Work Day (#TYDTWD) (20 June) nears, people across the globe will welcome their pooch into the workplace for a day – but at one Queensland law firm, having a dog at work is far more than a novel one-day event – their therapy dog is a permanent part of the team.
Travis Schultz and Partners (TSP) has welcomed Charlie, a gentle Groodle, into its Cairns office to support clients navigating the emotional toll of a compensation claim.
Half of all Australian households now own a dog,[1] yet most professional workplaces remain pet-free zones – making Charlie’s presence a rare move that’s helping redefine how client support is delivered in the legal sector.
TSP Partner Beth Rolton said that the idea came from hearing how support animals had helped some clients with psychological injuries – and that Charlie is already changing the way clients experience legal support.
“Navigating a legal matter can be overwhelming for people already dealing with pain, trauma or disruption to their lives. Charlie helps make that process feel safer, softer and less confronting,” Ms Rolton said.
“With clients now actively asking whether Charlie will be at their meetings, it’s just one of many signs that her presence is offering real, measurable support.”
One client said Charlie’s presence helped her through the emotional weight of a compensation claim after a traumatic injury.
“When receiving disappointing news during one meeting, Charlie climbed into my lap and snuggled in. There was no judgement – just comfort, calm and love. It made a bitter pill so much easier to swallow,” the client said.
“Going through the legal process can be stressful and intimidating. Having a furry friend by your side brings a sense of normalcy, eases anxiety and helps you feel grounded again.
“The moment I walk into the office and see Charlie’s wagging tail and her ‘I’m so happy to see you’ energy, I feel like I’m not alone. A gentle nudge, a paw on the leg, coming in for a pat – it’s those little things that calm you down when your emotions are running high.”
Charlie joined the team in October 2024 and completed five weeks of live-in training with Therapy and Support Animals Australia. She will complete her formal therapy dog certification after her first birthday later this year.
According to Nikki Bignell, founder of Therapy and Support Animals Australia, dogs like Charlie are a growing asset in trauma-informed environments.
“Interacting with therapy dogs has been scientifically shown to reduce cortisol – the stress hormone – and increase oxytocin, which supports emotional bonding and a sense of wellbeing,” Ms Bignell said.
“In a legal setting, where many clients are navigating complex trauma, a dog’s calm, non-judgmental presence can help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety and ease symptoms of PTSD and psychological distress. Importantly, they help rebuild trust – laying the foundation for healthy human connection during what can be an emotionally challenging time.
“Many trauma survivors find verbal communication difficult. A therapy dog shifts the focus, creating a safe, non-confrontational space that brings people into the present moment. This gentle support can invite more meaningful interaction, without pressure or expectation.”
While therapy dogs are starting to appear in courtroom settings, and research continues to highlight the benefits of therapy dogs in trauma recovery,[2] their presence within law firms remains rare.
“Charlie is a wonderful example of how thoughtfully trained support animals can enhance professional workplaces. I regularly visit airports, children’s hospitals and detention centres – but seeing a law firm like TSP embrace this kind of support for clients is rare, and incredibly powerful,” Ms Bignell said.
Travis Schultz, Managing Partner at Travis Schultz & Partners, said the success of the initiative in Cairns has opened the door to a potential rollout across the firm’s other offices in Queensland.
“At TSP, we believe that delivering exceptional legal outcomes goes hand-in-hand with supporting our clients’ wellbeing – especially during times of vulnerability,” Mr Schultz said.
“Charlie may not be a lawyer, but she plays a powerful part in helping people feel safe, seen and supported. It’s something we’re proud to offer, and we’re already seeing the difference it makes. She’s even earned her own team profile on our website – a small gesture that reflects her role in making a difference for our clients.”
