Dogs have a paws-itive effect on students

There’s a feeling that comes over you as soon as you make eye contact with a dog, and it intensifies when you get the chance to play with the dog. There’s something about petting a dog that makes you feel calm, relaxed and safe.

When I get home from a stressful day and sit on the couch, my dog immediately comes up to me wagging his tail and licking my face. This simple act of love provides me with instant stress relief and a burst of happiness. It’s as if my troubles disappear for a brief moment.

Did you know that there are opportunities on campus that allow students to play with dogs? UHCL has two programs that give you the opportunity to de-stress with some furry friends: Study Paws and Dogtor Murphy.

When are students the most stressed? Around midterms and finals of course.

Since March 2015, Study Paws (Pet Away Worry and Stress) has been an event held on campus available for students around midterms and finals.

Study Paws is held in the Alfred R. Neumann Library where handlers bring their dogs to help make students laugh and smile, and gives you a reason to take a break from tests and projects.

At Study Paws, students get the chance to interact with several dogs at once, of all different breeds. Who wouldn’t love that?

Study Paws is the perfect event to take advantage of when studying for those pesky tests are about to push you over the edge. Did I mention that it is free?!

I have personally attended Study Paws multiple times, and I have to admit it is one of my favorite events held on campus.

UHCL also has a dog on campus who is here on a more permanent basis. Have you ever noticed a little white and black fluff ball walking around campus? That is our therapy dog, Dogtor Murphy!

Murphy is a 2-year-old poodle who is an “employee” of Counseling Services. Murphy is here to offer company, comfort and stress relief to UHCL students and faculty.

Murphy is on campus several days a week and is available for one-on-one time if you ever need a little pick me up. To schedule an appointment with Dogtor Murphy, all you have to do is contact Counseling Services. Most of Murphy’s services are free to currently enrolled UHCL students.

Murphy also holds drop-in office hours in the Library on Mondays 4p.m.-5p.m. and at the Veterans Services Wednesdays 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Murphy even has his own Facebook page. How cool is that? His Facebook page allows students to keep up with his whereabouts on campus and what he is up to!

For all the dog lovers out there, I highly suggest taking advantage of these awesome, FREE opportunities to de-stress.