LSU students that were stressed about midterms had the opportunity to ease their worries during a dog therapy event hosted by the LSU Library on Wednesday.
The event is held twice a semester by the Tiger Human Animal Therapy Service program, which is “a community organization sponsored by the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine,” that is “composed of volunteers from LSU Vet Med and interested persons from the Baton Rouge community,” according to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine website.
The event involves local volunteers and their personal HATS certified dogs who set up in LSU’s library so students can come pet them. The volunteers have been participating at LSU for years but also volunteer at other local schools, hospitals and events around Louisiana.
Students filed in quickly and rushed to meet the dogs. Any sign of midterm stress disappeared as students sat around on the floor next to the dogs and conversed with the volunteers.
“I think it’s a really good idea and helps cheer people’s moods up, and I think it also helps kids that are far away from home that might miss their dog,” said freshman Claire Woodruff.
Two of the more popular dogs showcased haircuts with their sides trimmed to the letters “LSU.” Another fan favorite was a Saint Bernard named Ryder, who was laying down soaking up all the attention from the students.
“I think it’s spectacular; I love it, and I think we should do it everyday,” said freshman Donna Hubbard.
Students can expect another therapy dog visit to the library during finals week.
Lincoln the dog reaches up to lick a unsuspecting student Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023, in the LSU Library.
