Iowa Central's Therapy Dogs Brighten Thursdays for Students and Staff

Every Thursday, the Student Resource Center at Iowa Central hosts two golden retrievers, Nico and Truffle. Nico, a 10-year-old retired show dog, and Truffle, his 6-month-old offspring, are among four therapy dogs that visit the campus to uplift students and staff. Beth Collins, Science Department coordinator at Iowa Central, coordinates this initiative, which has been positively received.

Previously, the therapy dogs were brought in for stress relief during finals. This has become a regular event due to its popularity. Students often visit the Student Resource Center specifically when the dogs are there.

Arianna Sousarek, a sophomore photography student, has developed a connection with Nico over the past two months. Another student, Princess Altsisi, recently visited the dogs and was thrilled. The dogs wander around the Student Resource Center, interacting with students and staff, and bringing cheer.

Nico once took a snack left by a student, Anna Sondall. Sondall found the incident amusing and it brightened her day.

The therapy dogs are on campus every Thursday from 3-4 p.m., providing a break and happiness for the students and staff at Iowa Central. This initiative highlights the positive effect animals can have on mental health and well-being, especially in high-stress environments like a college campus.

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