Vanier Library will host two dog therapy sessions at Vanier Library
Just in time for end-of-semester blues a bunch of puppies are coming to play with you. On Thursday April 10 and April 14, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. you are invited to spend some time with Blue Ribbon Therapy Dogs.
According to pawsforpeople.org, pet therapy benefits people both mentally and physically as well as helping children with reading and physical therapy.
Mental and physical advantages of pet therapy include: lower blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, the release of endorphins which has a calming effect, diminished physical pain, lifting of mood and lessening of depression, decreased feelings of isolation and alienation, reduced boredom and lowered anxiety.
In February, Audrey Giles and her dog, Tundra, starting seeing students at Ottawa U and the program has become very popular.Several universities including McGill, Carleton University and Dalhousie, have held dog therapy sessions and Ottawa University has incorporated pet therapy into their counselling and coaching services.
“Just petting a dog will decrease your blood pressure and relieve anxiety. You can be affectionate with them and they’ll be affectionate back. They love attention,” Giles told The Toronto Star on March 9.
For more information, visit the Facebook event.
