Dogs on Campus: Student Volunteers Needed

Got a soft spot for dogs? The University of Arkansas has a new volunteer opportunity that might be perfect for you.

Big Red's Buddies (BRB) is a new pet therapy program launching this fall, and it's looking for students to help get it off the ground. Modeled after Pete's Pet Posse at Oklahoma State University, nationally certified dog therapy teams, owned by University of Arkansas faculty and staff, will support the wellness and well-being of our campus community. The idea is simple: connecting with a dog can ease stress and anxiety and create real moments of joy, and those moments add up to make a real difference in people's academic and personal lives.

This fall's inaugural class features four therapy teams:

• Penelope (Golden Retriever)
• Gus (Corgi)
• Nomar (Golden Retriever)
• Cash (Boxer)

Students who want to be part of the program can apply to become a Ruff Razorback. It's a volunteer role, and it's more than just spending time with dogs. Ruff Razorbacks help coordinate events, manage scheduling, support marketing efforts and handle logistics for the program, plus serve as helpers when the therapy teams are at events.

Applicants will participate in an interview with members of the BRB Advisory Board and Wellness teams. Applications are open now until Friday, Sept. 11.

Ready to apply? Submit an application.

Questions? Reach out to Karen Boston at kboston@walton.uark.edu.