De-Stress With Therapy Dogs in Mullins Library During Finals
Gryffin, left, and Bella
Each semester, the University Libraries partner with various campus groups to provide stress-relieving activities and treats for students during the last week of classes and finals. To help ease the anxiety and stress of the campus community during finals, Allison Scott and Michele Kilmer from the Eleanor Mann School of Nursing will offer sessions with the school's therapy dogs, Bella and Gryffin, as part of the Mullins Library Study Breaks. All sessions with Bella and Gryffin require reservations.
"Animal-assisted therapy is much more than petting a dog," Kilmer said. "Bella and Gryffin are trained to reduce stress and increase confidence while instilling a sense of calm in the person with whom they are interacting. They are the perfect therapy for anyone who misses their pets at home. They love to play, give hugs and high-fives, and just have a great time all around! We are excited to participate in this collaboration with the Mullins Library, and we look forward to seeing you there!"
Sessions with Bella and Gryffin will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, and Monday, Dec. 12, in Mullins 452. Sessions are scheduled in 30-minute blocks, and participants can choose to register to attend a group session (max. 15 people) or an individual session with one of the dogs and their handler.
Bella is a one-and-a-half-year-old golden retriever who works with Scott to complete research focusing on the use of therapy dogs in the treatment of anxiety among students. Gryffin is a one-year-old black lab assisting Kilmer with her work and service to the autism community in the Northwest Arkansas region.
"I am so excited that the folks at EMSON have been willing to partner with us to bring this incredibly valuable resource to our students this semester," said Kim Larsen, undergraduate engagement librarian. "I know that Bella and Griffin will bring students some much needed joy and relaxation this finals week and hopefully during more events in the future!"
Those interested can learn more about Bella and Gryffin by visiting their Instagram pages.
Topics
Contacts
Kelsey Lovewell Lippard, director of public relations
University Libraries
479-575-7311,
klovewel@uark.edu
Headlines
Peter Ungar Chosen as Member of the National Academy of Sciences
A distinguished professor of anthropology and director of environmental dynamics, Ungar is the first U of A faculty member to be elected to the prestigious Academy.
Ag Technology Students Visit Greenway Equipment, Learn About Advances in Machinery
Members of the U of A's Agricultural Systems and Technology Club recently spent a day at the Greenway Technology Farm in Newport to learn about advances featured in John Deere tractors and machinery.
College of Education and Health Professions WE CARE Everywhere Campaign Kicks Off This Summer
Retractable scroll banners with the phrase "WE CARE Everywhere" are small enough to fit any suitcase and just waiting for your chance to shine in social media posts throughout the summer.
Staff Senators for 2024-25 Elected
Twelve newly elected staff members will begin serving the U of A staff community for three-year terms beginning July 1 on the university's Staff Senate.
Matlock Briefs Congressional Staff Regarding Crop Sustainability Research
Professor Marty Matlock briefed U.S. House of Representative and Senate staff members on research conducted by the U of A regarding the effects of management practices on crop sustainability.