University Libraries' beloved Cuddle a Canine event returns on April 18. This heartwarming initiative aims to comfort, support, and relax the UNM community as it navigates the challenges of the end of the semester.
Scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the northwest corner of Smith Plaza outside Zimmerman Library, Cuddle a Canine invites students, staff, and faculty to interact with therapy dogs and their dedicated owners from the Southwest Canine Corps of Volunteers. With over 30 years of experience in offering pet therapy, the Albuquerque-based organization boasts more than 70 members and multiple dogs devoted to spreading joy and relief throughout the community.
University Libraries Access Service staff Lucia Pierce and Tomás González organize the event. Both have helped to organize it each semester since 2022.
“Cuddle a Canine is a great opportunity for our college to provide a space for the UNM community to engage with canine volunteers and their handlers. It is truly wonderful to see people taking time out of their day to have conversations and interactions with members of the community and our visitors. We are very thankful for the support to continue this event,” said Pierce.
“This is an event that we always look forward to in both the spring and fall. We purposefully plan this around a time in the semester when things can get a bit challenging and stressful for our campus community. It’s always great to see the smiles, conversations, and bonds that develop as people unwind and de-stress with our canine visitors,” said González.
All members of the UNM community are invited to join Cuddle a Canine to experience the therapeutic benefits of spending time with these furry companions. Don't miss this chance to unwind during the busy end-of-semester period.