By Sheri-Lee Norris
Collegian file photos
TR Campus students stressed out during finals week can have a little dog love, cuddles and petting 10 a.m.-noon Dec. 12 and 2-4 p.m. Dec. 13 in the Tahita Fulkerson Library (TREF 2105).
This is the fourth semester Pet Partners Delta Hearts of Gold will bring therapy dogs to TR.
“This has been a huge hit for our students and provides them a few moments of stress relief in between their finals,” said TR library manager Stephanie Wineman.
Pet Partners is an organization that provides therapy relief around the world.
Therapy dogs are most often used in hospital settings or in senior homes although they have branched out and are covering requests such as TCC’s assistance during finals week. The dogs will not be there all day.
“Due to our Pet Partner policy, our dogs cannot work over two hours per day to reduce the stress on the animal,” said Tom Taylor, special events chairman for Delta Hearts of Gold.
Over the last two years, TR students have spent time with the dogs to help reduce stress and prepare them for upcoming or ongoing examinations.
Wineman hopes students will “stop by the library to help them relax and have a few moments of joy.” She believes it has provided a valuable service to TR students.
Taylor said the dog handlers include members of the community such as retired professionals, housewives and teachers. Pets brought to TR will include many breeds and sizes.
