Can We Bring Therapy Dogs to Campus?

For many people, a dog is their best friend. Unfortunately, due to various reasons, not all students are able to relish the opportunity to be in the company of their canine friends. Introducing therapy dogs on Bethany’s campus would be highly beneficial, as it would provide students with an outlet to relieve stress and create a sense of connection to their absent pets.

The introduction of therapy dogs would not only be beneficial in stress reduction, but assist in the improvement of academic performance. The ability to engage in an activity that allows students to distance themselves from academic pressures will significantly increase their ability to concentrate on their schoolwork. The benefit of therapy dogs would not only impact students, but also educators who are overwhelmed with the level of stress that comes with their responsibilities. Giving professors the chance to be in the presence of a therapy dog could also provide stress reduction, relaxation, and other benefits.

Having therapy dogs would be an excellent and valuable way to educate people about service animals. There are students who are unfamiliar with how service animals are used by the public, thus the introduction of therapy dogs on campus would give them the opportunity to learn about various types and breeds of service animals, and the best ways to engage with them and their handlers. Furthermore, an additional educational benefit of having therapy dogs on campus is the opportunity for people with a fear of dogs to overcome their anxieties.

Having Bethany introduce therapy dogs on campus is also a great step towards prioritizing the importance of mental health on campus. When a person interacts with a dog, they receive a serotonin boost, which has the ability to increase their well-being. Those who are struggling with emotional issues can find relief, comfort, love, and support through exposure to therapy dogs.

Given the immense benefits and great positive impact that therapy dogs can provide, it would be an excellent addition to Bethany College. It would also give incoming students the ability to see something they might not normally see on other college campuses around Kansas. This would give Bethany College a huge boost to be able to get new students onto campus.