Therapy Dogs Offer Students a Break from Exam Week Stress
Wilmington College students had an opportunity to deal with the stress of final exams and semester-ending papers and projects with a little help from man’s best friend.
(PICTURED) Sophomore Lawrence Daya makes friends with Waldo, a rescued dog whose owner is Kathy Collins.
Therapy dogs and other friendly canines were stationed in the Robinson Communication Center lobby Friday (May 5) where students could drop by for a relaxing dose of Waldo, Goose, Ruby and Max.
These are either registered service dogs or ones whose owners were confident their history ensures they will be friendly and non-threatening in normal situations.
Therapy dogs are trained to provide comfort and affection to persons in hospitals, nursing homes, retirement homes, hospices and disaster areas. Their penchant for friendliness to strangers and often calm and gentle demeanor has resulted in enhancing relaxation, lowering blood pressure and relieving stress in many.
Finals week on college campuses is known for heightened levels of stress in many students. The College wanted to provide students with an opportunity to take a break from their studies — and anxiety — to experience the calming effect of interacting with these canine good citizens.
Judy Harvey, assistant professor of English and coordinator of the Writing Center, organized the event and wished to thank those that volunteered their dogs.
“I’m always pleasantly surprised with the number of students that come and how appreciative they’ve been,” she said, noting the dogs have been a staple of Exam Week since 2014.
