It was a doggone good time at Zimmerman Library thanks to University Libraries and the Southwest Canine Corps of Volunteers.
This group came to campus with a purpose–to help both stressed out students and staff, and stressed out pups, with Cuddle a Canine.
These dogs normally serve sick patients in hospitals, overwhelmed nurses, and struggling students in classrooms. Sherry Mangold, SCCV Community Liaison, says a change in pace to outside, and slightly less serious situations makes a big difference for the dogs.
“To be outside and intermingling, the dogs love it,” she said.
Still, she acknowledged the dogs still do sense the pressure of midterms, and react lovingly to that.
Scientifically, research shows dogs can not only smell stress, but simply petting them can cut down on the stress hormone cortisol.
“Our goal is that we can provide a little stress relief,” Library Information Specialist Lucia Pierce said.
She said it’s a good time for not just on-campus Lobos, but the community volunteers as well.
University Libraries hopes to continue the event each semester following the COVID-19 Pandemic. Check their calendar for the next event at the link here.