The Monadnock dog therapy sessions offer an opportunity for students to connect with dogs and their handlers right on campus. The Monadnock Therapy pets came to visit the L.P. Young Student Center on Thursday, Oct. 1.
Emily Alexander, Senior Coordinator of Student Involvement and Well-Being, said that the Office of Student Involvement sees bringing the dogs on campus as an outlet for students.
“We know a lot of our students either have pets at home that they miss or just need a wellness break,” she said.
Mary Porter, who brought her licensed therapy dog to campus, said they visit places like assisted living facilities and libraries, but her dog “loves coming [to campus] for all the good energy.”
Senior London Armitage came to visit the therapy pets. “It’s my senior year, so I have a bond with some of the dogs that come and we get excited to see each other,” Armitage said.
For students who miss their pets back home, the therapy dogs offer a way for students to still feel that connection. Armitage explained this further, stating, “Students who miss dogs from home get a chance to meet these and still feel those connections.”
First-year student Eduardo Villafane felt the same way. He said, “I have a dog at home that I miss a lot, so it seemed like a good time to stop by.” It’s a simple yet effective way to fill that void of missing a pet.
The therapy dogs aren’t just for those missing their own pets; it’s also for people who just enjoy being around other dog lovers. Villafane added, “This opportunity can also be for people who enjoy people and don’t mind socializing.”
Dog handler Deb Coles mentioned that they’ve been doing this for seven years, and their dog “just loves coming [to campus],” which highlights the great experience for both dogs and people involved.
Sometimes, students just want to take a break and enjoy the company of the dogs. Sophomore Tristan Phillips said he thinks the therapy pets visiting is a great thing. “It’s something unique the campus can offer you. I got out of my classes early and saw this happening, so I thought it would be nice to come in,” he said.
The Mondadnock Therapy Pets will return for more visits to the Student Center throughout the academic year.
Javian Enamorado can be contacted at
jenamorado@kscequinox.com
