Collage of photos of students playing with therapy dogsCountway Cuddles

Feeling stressed? Come relax with trained therapy dogs from Tufts Paws for People, Dog B.O.N.E.S., and Puppies Behind Bars, and even a registered therapy guinea pig from Pet Partners! These organizations help hospitals, nursing homes, and universities offer pet therapy programs.

The library provides Countway Cuddles pet therapy as a way to combat burnout, stress, and anxiety. During this program, campus members can drop in to our pet therapy area (Countway Library 1st floor couch area near the Shattuck Street entrance) to pet and play with therapy animals. Many colleges offer these programs due to the positive mental health benefits. Therapy pet programs have shown to be especially helpful for medical students. These animals offer companionship and a calming presence to students. Studies have shown that therapy animals can help lower blood pressure and relieve stress. Read more about the right way to pet a dog.

Meet our #CountwayCuddles family:

A dog in the stands at a stadium wearing a neckerchief with the Boston Red Sox logo on it.
Sophie the Golden Retriever
Multiple people petting a relaxed dog.
Rudy the Golden Retriever
A dog wearing a service dog vest.
Sasha the Black Lab
A dog lying in the grass.
Vigi the Labradoodle

 

A guinea pig lying on a blanket.
Hermie the therapy guinea pig
A dog holding a ball in its mouth.
Bodhi the Yellow Lab/Golden Retriever Mix 
A dog wearing its photo ID on a lanyard around its neck.
Bao the miniature Goldendoodle
A dog lying on the carpet.
Archie the Black Lab
A dog licking its lips.
Rosie the Cocker Spaniel/Poodle Mix

 

Remember: sometimes the dogs need to take a break or cancel, so be sure to check the calendar often. Please contact the Countway Outreach Team with any questions!

 

Students petting a Golden Retriever therapy dog in Countway Library and on the lawn.A yellow Labrador therapy dog on the lawn with a student, and a Golden Retriever therapy dog visiting staff and students at Countway Library.

Upcoming Pet Therapy Events