News
Paws for a Break: Pet Therapy
By: Bella Currie
Last updated: Tuesday, 14 May 2024
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.
With such an overwhelmingly positive reception, the school plans to make "Paws for a Break" a new tradition during stressful academic periods. Preparations are already underway to bring the therapy dogs back to campus to lift student spirits soon.