Therapy dogs Kodiak and Athena visit Monday, December 12, 3-5pm

Kodiak

We are happy to welcome our favorite therapy dogs Kodiak and Athena back to the Bentley Library for a “Take a Paws” stress-relief session!  Thanks to the Center for Health and Wellness, you can enjoy some Bernese Mountain Dog love in the art gallery on Monday, December 12, from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Studies have shown that interacting with animals can have positive impacts on our social, mental and physical well-being. It’s posited that human-animal interaction activates the oxytocin system, which can improve interpersonal interactions and mood, reduce cortisol (the “stress hormone”), lower heart rate and blood pressure, improve immune system functioning, reduce anxiety, enhance empathy and improve learning.*

Self-care is especially important during this stressful time of year. We encourage you to visit the art gallery on Monday for your daily dose of dogs and oxytocin!


"Take a Paws"

* Beetz, A., Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Julius, H., & Kotrschal, K. (2012). Psychosocial and psychophysiological effects of human-animal interactions: The possible role of oxytocin. Frontiers in Psychology, 3, 234. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3408111/