Therapy dogs help students de-stress during finals week

Brody (2)

At a glance

“Brody,” a Newfoundland dog with 2 studentsSix dogs were able to bring some much-needed relief to students studying for final exams on Monday, May 11, during the Hinkle Memorial Library’s Dogs in the Library event.

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“Brody,” a Newfoundland dog with 2 studentsSix dogs were able to bring some much-needed relief to students studying for final exams on Monday, May 11, during the Hinkle Memorial Library’s Dogs in the Library event.

From 6-8 p.m., the dogs and their handlers came to the library to visit with students and help them relax and de-stress during finals week. Five of the canines are registered through Therapy Dogs International, an organization that trains, regulates, and certifies therapy dogs and their handlers for service in community settings, such as libraries, schools, and nursing homes. Another dog was affiliated with Pet Partners of Syracuse, a group of volunteers who promote the health benefits of the human-animal bond.

Amie Acton, instructional support assistant at the library, said, “The event has quickly become a mainstay during finals week and something students consistently look forward to attending.”