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De-Stress with a Therapy Dog!

During Finals Semester, UWG Library plans to bring a therapy dog to the library to help students relax and de-stress. The friendly pet will help students finish the semester and get through their final exams and projects!

A long history

The Impact of Therapy Dogs in Academic Libraries

The concept of therapy dogs in academic libraries has a long and enriching history, rooted in the understanding of the positive effects of animal companionship on mental health and well-being. Libraries across the country have increasingly recognized the benefits that therapy dogs provide, especially during high-stress periods such as finals week. These furry companions not only offer a moment of respite for students but also create an inviting atmosphere that fosters connection and comfort within the often stressful environment of academia. Many institutions have embraced this initiative to support student well-being; for instance, Montana State University's "Paws to De-Stress" program partners with Intermountain Therapy Animals to bring therapy dogs to their library at the end of each semester, allowing students to unwind and recharge during stressful exam periods. Research indicates that such programs can significantly reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, making them valuable additions to campus life.

Similarly, libraries like the one at the University of Texas at Arlington have implemented dog therapy events, allowing students to engage with trained, certified therapy dogs during peak stress times, such as finals week. The enthusiasm and joy these events foster are palpable, with one librarian noting, “Student reactions are overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their delight and relief at being able to interact with the dogs” . Feedback from students reflects this sentiment: comments such as "This is the most fun I've had at college" and "He makes me smile :)" showcase how therapy dogs provide not only emotional relief but also a much-needed break from academic pressures.

Another noteworthy example comes from a blog post detailing a therapy dog event at a university library, where more than 10% of the student body attended over two nights. The students were able to connect with each other and share their experiences while interacting with the dogs, leading to comments like, "He is so cute!!" and "He helps bring up people's spirits :)" . This evidence underlines the significant social benefits of therapy dog programs, as students who might not otherwise visit the library find solace and comfort in the presence of these friendly companions.

The ongoing success of therapy dog initiatives in academic libraries illustrates their effectiveness in addressing student mental health needs. As evidenced by the positive reactions and testimonials, including "He gives me happiness" and "He is such a good boy + gives lots of kisses <3," therapy dogs have become a cherished aspect of campus life, helping students navigate the challenges of their academic journeys with a little more joy and a lot less stress. As libraries continue to prioritize student wellness, the presence of therapy dogs will remain an important and heartwarming facet of academic support.

Therapy Dogs at Ingram Library

At Ingram Library, University of West Georgia, we proudly joined this heartwarming trend by introducing therapy dogs to our campus on April 26, 2022, with the arrival of Barnaby. Since then, he has made a significant impact on the lives of our students, bringing joy and alleviating stress during crucial times. On February 29, 2024, we welcomed another therapy dog, Carrie, further enriching our students' experiences at the library.

The feedback from students who have interacted with Barnaby has been overwhelmingly positive. Comments reflect a deep appreciation for his calming presence and the joy he brings to their day. One student remarked, "I have to pretend to be completely put together and even-keeled most of the time. Petting this dog allows me a brief moment to let go of this performance," highlighting the relief therapy dogs provide in managing anxiety. Another expressed, “He helps bring up people's spirits," while yet another student proclaimed, "Barnaby for president!" Such testimonials emphasize not just the happiness he brings but also the profound impact he has on reducing stress levels: "My stress level went down so quickly," and "He can help ease a person's tension."

Barnaby's friendly demeanor has made him a beloved figure on campus. Students have noted his ability to create smiles, calling him "the sweetest dog ever" and "such a good boy." Many have shared how he brings joy into their lives: "He brings joy!" and "He is so full of love and helped relieve stress off of me today!" With a gentle nature and a knack for offering unconditional affection, Barnaby exemplifies the power of therapy dogs in academic settings, proving that a simple interaction with a furry friend can brighten a student’s day and provide essential emotional support during their academic journey.

Ingram Library is committed to continuing this tradition of bringing therapy dogs to our students, recognizing the invaluable role these companions play in enhancing mental well-being and fostering a supportive library environment.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Student Well-Being in Academic Libraries

The therapeutic benefits of therapy dogs for students in academic settings are well-documented, underscoring their role in promoting mental health and well-being during stressful periods. One significant advantage of therapy dogs is their ability to provide comfort and reduce anxiety. Research conducted by Jalongo and McDevitt highlights that therapy dogs in libraries help foster student engagement and mitigate self-reported stress during finals. Students often find solace in the presence of these furry companions, allowing them to momentarily escape the pressures of academic life. As noted in their study, "Interacting with therapy dogs can create a sense of calm, offering students a break from the rigors of study" (Jalongo and McDevitt).

The "Paws to De-Stress" program at Montana State University exemplifies the positive impact therapy dogs have during high-stress times. The program brings therapy dogs to the library at the end of each semester, enabling students to unwind and recharge as they prepare for exams. This initiative aligns with findings from McDowall et al., who emphasize that "animal companionship significantly influences human health promotion," suggesting that therapy dogs can play a crucial role in enhancing student well-being during crucial academic periods (McDowall et al.).

Student testimonials further illustrate the emotional benefits of therapy dogs. Comments from students who interacted with Barnaby, a therapy dog at Ingram Library, reflect a deep appreciation for the joy and relief these animals bring. Phrases like he "helped my anxiety!” and “My stress level went down so quickly” underscore the profound effects of therapy dogs on mental health. Such sentiments are echoed in a study by Vormbrock and Grossberg, which indicates that “petting a dog is associated with lower blood pressure and heart rates,” contributing to an overall feeling of relaxation and comfort (Vormbrock and Grossberg).

In addition to reducing stress and anxiety, therapy dogs also foster a sense of connection and community among students. Programs that integrate therapy dogs into academic environments not only provide mental health benefits but also create an inviting atmosphere where students can engage with each other and share their experiences. As highlighted in Emory University’s initiative, where students relax with therapy dogs during finals, these interactions contribute to a supportive campus culture, reinforcing the importance of mental health resources in academic libraries (Christian).

Overall, therapy dogs serve as invaluable assets in academic libraries, offering emotional support, reducing stress, and enhancing student well-being. As institutions continue to recognize the benefits of these programs, they pave the way for more inclusive and supportive learning environments that prioritize the mental health of their students.

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