“New Study Reveals the Power of Therapy Dogs in Supporting College Students’ Well-Being”
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Therapy dogs play a vital role in supporting individuals’ mental well-being, whether they are assisting patients in hospitals, aiding young learners in school, providing comfort to seniors in retirement communities, or helping anyone in need. A recent study has now shown that regular interaction with therapy dogs, known for their calming effects on anxiety, can benefit first-year college students as well. The PAWs4US study, published in the Pets journal, examined the impact of a long-term animal-assisted drop-in program on the well-being of first-year students at Washington State University.
Results from the study revealed that students who engaged in unstructured sessions with therapy dogs over several months reported reduced stress and depression levels, along with increased self-compassion. This is particularly significant for first-year college students who often experience a decline in mental health while adjusting to a new environment away from home. Dr. Patricia Pendry, the lead author of the study and a human development professor, noted that providing students with autonomy in their interactions with therapy dogs closely mirrors real pet ownership and could make it easier for universities to implement similar programs.
Previous research by Dr. Pendry demonstrated that brief interactions with therapy dogs can lower cortisol levels, commonly known as the stress hormone. Structured programs involving therapy animals have also been shown to enhance students’ well-being and academic performance. In this study, the focus was on unstructured drop-in sessions to explore their effectiveness. Participants were encouraged to spend time with the dogs as they wished, with a total of 145 first-year students involved in either a control group or a seven-session therapy dog program.
While the therapy dogs played a significant role in the students’ well-being, the researchers believe that the overall environment, including interacting with other students and the dog handlers, also contributed to the positive outcomes. Dr. Pendry highlighted the benefits of a combined approach, stating, “It’s likely a combination of sitting quietly, petting the dog, talking to other students, and engaging with the handlers that contributes to student well-being.” The study suggested that students who attended multiple sessions experienced the greatest benefits, emphasizing the importance of ongoing initiatives over one-time events for student well-being.
For those considering adopting a pet to support their mental health, a list of 32 recommended emotional support animal breeds is provided. Additionally, if you are a new dog owner feeling overwhelmed, here are 11 tips to help you navigate the challenges of puppy parenthood.
