Cady Stribling
Features Editor
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As midterms close in, students alleviated their stress with the emotional support of therapy dogs during Pet Therapy.

The Humane Society of Calloway County brought their furry friends to campus on Tuesday, March 3, where students couldn’t resist giving a quick belly rub while walking to and from class.

Eileen Mason, who has been doing pet therapy for the past five years, showed off tricks that the dogs learned.

“Everybody always enjoys seeing us come,” Mason said. “We get a lot of comments that this is the best thing that’s happened to [students] all day.”

Mason said many of the dogs have remained at the Humane Society for a long time as therapy dogs.

Terry Derting has been with the humane society for 25 years. She said the benefits of allowing students to socialize with the animals are endless.

“There’s a lot of published data that shows how [animals] help reduce stress, and obviously students are stressed in this environment,” Derting said. “It’s a positive experience for students.”

She said students might be missing their own pets, and seeing other pets can help with that even if for a short amount of time.

“It gives them a chance to interact with a dog where they might not otherwise be able to,” Derting said. “It’s a stress reliever and it’s fun.”

During her time with the Humane Society, Derting has realized the prominent need that remains in the humane society community.

“There are so many needs for this community,” Derting said. “The Humane Society is all supported by donations, and there is no state funding.”

The Humane Society of Calloway County is a nonprofit and non-sheltered organization, meaning the animals live in foster homes with volunteers. Derting said she urges students to help in any way they can.

“Support your local Humane Society,” Derting said. “There are lots of ways students can be involved; some are interns, some just volunteer hours at the shelter. If they enjoy companion animals, then the shelter and Humane Society are a good way to get engaged.”