Dogsey

Students living on a college campus were given the opportunity to meet and cuddle pets in an event partly aimed at reducing student stress. Six animals from the Humane Society of St Joseph County, Indiana, including five dogs and a rabbit, were brought along to Notre Dame's Knights of Columbus building for the “Puppy Days” event.

The event was well attended by more than 500 students. Event coordinator Lizzie Helping, a sophomore, explained that because the students are isolated on the campus, they miss their pets and the relaxing effect of petting an animal. “This gives students a taste of home and shows them the responsibilities of owning a pet just out of college, she said. She explained that the dogs benefit too by having time out of the shelter for love and treats.

The dogs chosen to participate in the event were those that could handle a crowd. Genny Carlson from the Humane Society said she welcomed the chance to come to campus and that it gave them a chance to promote volunteering to students. The campus has an on-site organisation, Circle K, who support the Humane Society by volunteering to spend time with the animals, walking them and train them for adoption.