by Keith Milligan

Therapy Dogs International (TDI) will be bringing nine dogs to Rider University on April 22, 2003, and the Counseling Center will be sponsoring "Doggie Day Afternoon" outside of Daly’s cafeteria. Dogs have many uses (i.e. leading the blind, aiding search and rescue efforts and assisting law enforcement) and recently, a connection between the bond people and dogs share and people’s emotional health has been found.

According to TDI, there is a great deal of literature that supports the power of animals in increasing emotional well being, promoting healing and improving individuals’ overall quality of life. Interestingly, some studies show that simply holding or petting an animal will lower blood pressure, release stress and anxiety and decrease feelings of loneliness. Other articles suggest that interaction with dogs can increase motivation and improve body image (animals provide unconditional acceptance), and help individuals develop trust.

Stress and anxiety are especially common issues on college and university campuses. A recent study at UCLA pointed to freshmen, citing that 30.2 percent of freshmen surveyed reported feeling stressed and "frequently overwhelmed" by everything they have to do. Add to this the fears, anxieties and worries about the war with Iraq and the ever-present threat of terrorism, it is no wonder individuals feel as they do.

The intent of this series of articles is not to provide counseling but to provide information about mental health and wellness topics. To seek help with your individual concerns, please contact Rider University Counseling Services at Lawrenceville (609-896-5157) or Princeton (609-921-7100 x8275) to schedule an appointment.