If you’re walking through campus this term, you might cross paths with some four-legged furry friends roaming the NC hallways.
NC’s Student Engagement team have arranged for Therapy Tails Ontario (TTO) to visit both College campuses throughout the term, offering students, staff, and visitors the chance to take a break and unwind with a group of gentle, playful dogs, accompanied by their owners.
TTO is a non-profit charity known for its Dog Therapy Program that makes a positive impact in local communities. Their volunteers and dogs visit communities, providing care and companionship through a diverse range of outreach programs.
The therapy dogs first visited NC at the end of Winter 2023 during the Knights Against Procrastination event, designed to help students manage stress and develop healthy study habits. The visit was so well received that students requested the dogs’ return, leading to bi-weekly visits starting in the Spring of 2023. For many students, these visits have become a highlight of campus life, offering a break from their studies and a mental health boost to brighten their day.
As the new year unfolds and winter is in full swing, this term is well underway–but if you’re in need of a little pick-me-up, look no further than right here on campus. The therapy dogs are here, ready to lend a paw and bring some joy to your day!
Benefits of Therapy Dogs:
- Stress reduction: The dogs create a calming atmosphere, allowing students and staff to de-stress during a busy semester.
- Improved mental well-being: Petting dogs has been shown to reduce anxiety and boost mood.
- Study breaks: The visits offer the perfect mental reset before diving back into coursework and exams.
- Enhanced campus community: The visits provide a welcoming space for the NC community to relax and recharge together.
If you’re hoping to spend some time with the therapy dogs this term, check out the schedule below for upcoming visits:
Welland Campus (Tuesdays, bi-weekly):
- February 11
- February 25
- March 11
- March 25
- April 8
- Location: International Foyer (in front of International Department)
Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake (Thursdays, bi-weekly):
- January 30
- February 13
- February 27
- March 13
- March 27
- April 10
- Location: Cafeteria hallway in front of main staircase.
