On Sunday, December 13, volunteers from PAWS of CNY had an opportunity to bring their certified therapy dogs to a student de-stress event at Syracuse University’s Haven Residence Hall. The event was scheduled to give students an opportunity to take a much needed break during the stress of finals week and enjoy the many benefits of pet therapy.
PAWS of CNY volunteer Flo Anderson attended the event with her Shi Tzu, Chloe.
“The students loved having the dogs cuddle with them,” said Anderson. “I can’t tell you how many students said to me ‘you just made my day.’ So many students said how much they miss their dogs but this visit made them happy and they can’t wait to get home and see their dogs.”
Anyone who has ever spent a prolonged period of time away from their pet knows the feelings of homesickness that missing a pet can produce. While PAWS of CNY volunteers know that their pets can never replace those that are missed by students who are away from home, many students express that time spent with a therapy dog is effective in easing those feelings of homesickness, even if only temporarily.
“[The students] were so grateful that we were there for them,” said Anderson. “Even students walking in the building at the end of the event would stop to see the dogs and say how awesome it was that we were there. What a great experience to give these young adults a chance to relax during a stressful time.”
If you are interested in having PAWS of CNY attend your next student de-stress event, contact us today.