Engineering and Informatics students feeling the weight of stress found a delightful reprieve last week, courtesy of some unexpected visitors! The School of Engineering and Informatics warmly welcomed Canine Concern.

Seven therapy dogs from Canine Concern paid a visit to the Future Technologies Lab on Tuesday, offering students a well-deserved respite from their studies. Therapy dogs Layla, Lowen, Jinx, Lulu, Django, Daisy, and Alfie were given a warm welcome from a number of Engineering and Informatics students.

"Paws for a Break" operated on a rotating schedule, allowing students to book 20-minute slots in advance via an online system. A "calm" session concluded the event, catering to both the tired therapy dogs and those seeking a quieter atmosphere.

Organised by the school’s Student Experience Team, this pet therapy initiative was a highlight of Revision Week, designed to bolster student well-being during the demanding final exam period. Research indicates that interactions with therapy animals yield mental health benefits, including reduced anxiety and enhanced mood.