Tag: dog

While having a pet during law school sounds like a pretty big responsibility (and it is, don’t get me wrong), my dog has also brought huge benefits into my life. Of course, there are the many benefits that you can read about online such as enhanced cognitive skills, decreased stress, better social skills, etc. the list goes on. However, I don’t often see articles expressing the pros and the cons of having a pet during law school. A large percentage of law students suffer from significant stress and anxiety during their academic career, who could say no to a little bit of serotonin with fur? 

Of course, where there are absolute benefits to owning a pet during law school, there are bound to be some drawbacks. If you are a student who enjoys spending all of their time studying in the library, then this path might be a little more difficult you. It can be difficult to be gone all day when you have a dog at home waiting for you to return in order to be fed, watered and walked. Another major draw back would be the fact that you have to pick and choose your classes around the best schedule for both you and your pet. Having a dog means that your schedule revolves around them. I like to ensure that I’m not away from him for hours at a time, he can eat his meal at the correct times, and that we will be able to get our walks in like we should.

On a more positive note, I can’t imagine not having him in my life while I attempt to navigate my academic and legal career. Before law school, I had never lived completely on my own before and it was a difficult transition for me. Living alone can be lonely, but law school itself can seem isolating at times. However, it’s easy to be reminded that I’m not alone when I have a dog glued to my side all day. My dog provides me with security, company, serotonin, exercise, and stress relief. In addition to the anxiety and stress relief that comes along with owning a pet, he also keeps me outside and exercising. We go for walks everyday, multiple times a day. He keeps me active even during exam season when doing anything other than being buried in my outlines seems impossible. If you have ever considered getting yourself a pet while trying to navigate law school, I will be the first person in line encouraging you to take the leap. As long as you’re mindful about how much time you can realistically give that pet, it is one of the most rewarding and beneficial things you can do for yourself in the long run.