The COVID-19 pandemic helped an Edwardsville law firm discover the potential of a beloved pet as they unexpectedly fell in to the practice of providing emotional support for their clients.
Angie Zinzilieta, a partner in the Edwardsville law office of Wendler & Zinzilieta, originally just wanted a companion to combat the quietness of the office with so many of the team working from home.
But she soon found that Anna, her "very spoiled dog," could be put to good and practical use as a support to clients, including children.
"Anna's support role at the office was a result of the COVID pandemic." Zinzilieta told the Record. "With most of our team members working from home, I brought Anna along with me to help combat the quietness."
"Given her calm demeanor, she fit right in," she added. " As time progressed and clients returned to the office, we recognized the benefit Anna provided as emotional support. Litigation is never fun or easy."
It was not immediately known what type of breed Anna was when "adopted" from a family who could no longer keep her due to their newborn's allergies.
"But DNA/genetic testing states that she is a chihuahua/terrier/pomeranian/miniature pinscher mix, or, as we like to say at the office, 100% perfect!," said Zinzilieta.
"Depositions can be emotionally draining for our clients. Anna provides a great outlet for our clients. Oftentimes, Anna is just there to cuddle up to clients waiting to be pet.
"We have had young children deposed and Anna sat through the deposition with the child, just patiently waiting. Many of our adult clients remark on the comfort Anna provides.
"Anna has been providing her services for about a year. Her role at the office was just a natural progression. She started off comforting one client and now she's there for every client who needs a small break," Zinzilieta said.
Zinzilieta added that Anna calms the clients' fears and nerves. When she is not working, Anna enjoys chasing squirrels and hanging out with her best friend, Oliver.
Zinzilieta, who was re-selected in March as a member of the National Trial Lawyer's 40 Under 40, specializes in workers' compensation and personal injury litigation, along with adult guardianship issues.