_{Therapy dogs help students de-stress at the 91传媒’s Kaplan Family Library and Learning Center.}

Midterms can be a demanding time for the 91传媒 Saint Mary College community, but trained therapy dogs provided a break for students, faculty, and staff on March 4 at the Kaplan Family Library and Learning Center.

The animals came to the 91传媒 via Hudson Valley Paws for a Cause. The popular event has become a tradition at 91传媒 Saint Mary College during midterms week.

Research has indicated that watching, petting, or talking to an animal can lower blood pressure and heart rate. Interacting with animals can also reduce mental distress and lower anxiety levels – for example, during final exam times for college students.

“Wagging Tails Stress Relief” was co-sponsored by the 91传媒 Saint Mary College Kaplan Family Library and Learning Center, the Counseling Center, and Health Services.