On Tuesday, October 20, PAWS of CNY had the opportunity to attend the Syracuse University Slice of Life event – a student de-stress event aimed at encouraging students to enjoy some much-needed relaxation during the stress of the school year.
The event was held in the Schine Student Center on the Syracuse University campus. The event was filled with students stopping by to enjoy the available activities and interact with a certified pet therapy dog. PAWS of CNY volunteer Alex James attended the event with his Australian Shepherd, Stella. According to James, a lot of the students were thrilled to have contact with the dogs because their time away from home has left them missing their own family pets.
“Some stayed for 20 minutes or more just sitting with the dogs, petting them, [and] having them sit in their laps,” said James. “A few students mentioned it was nice to have the dogs there to de-stress during midterms.”
Therapy dogs like Stella make perfect companions during emotionally stressful times. The warm and loving demeanor of a calming dog can illicit both an emotionally and physically relaxing response to those who interact with him/her.
“Stella’s friendliness around people and high energy let us know she would be a good therapy dog,” said Alex. “She’s always happy to meet new people which makes a big difference at facilities where new people are constantly coming and going.”
For more information on PAWS of CNY’s student de-strss programs, contact PAWS of CNY today.