Dog Therapy

Any student who likes dogs or feels peace and connection in interacting with animals may benefit from attending a dog therapy event. Those with anxiety, depression, loss issues, loneliness, and homesickness may especially benefit.

You do not need to have a “mental health concern” to visit and enjoy a session with our therapy dogs. Any student stressed by a demanding schedule, distance from loved ones, or perhaps especially missing a family pet companion is welcome at dog therapy events.

Yes, therapy dogs are formally trained and certified. Therapy dog certification usually requires a basic level of obedience, consideration for dog temperament, handler training, and connecting with a therapy dog organization. Our therapy dogs are certified and insured through Alliance of Therapy Dogs, Therapy Dog International, and Pet Partners.

All dog therapy services are provided on a volunteer basis; there is no cost to attend open dog therapy hours or dog therapy events.

Therapy dog visits are reserved for campus groups/organizations, academic departments and offices, classroom visits, or residence hall visits through the Office of Residence Life.

To request a visit by a therapy dog(s):

• Ask your Resident Advisor, Resident Director, group leader(s), professor or staff to submit the Dog Therapy Request Form.
• Submit the request at least two weeks before the event to allow for planning.
• One request per group, organization, or residence hall per academic year, due to demand.
• Provide a public space that is easily accessible.
• Provide a bowl of fresh, clean water for the dogs. 
• For indoor spaces, please be sure there is a carpet/rug or blanket for the dogs.
• For outdoor events, please reserve a backup indoor location in case of poor weather.
• The space must be free of anything dangerous to animals.
• Those attending must be sober and maintain a welcoming atmosphere for the animals.
• No other animals or food are permitted in the area of the therapy dog.
• The handler will remain with the dogs at all times during a visit.

We reserve the right to cancel a visit or leave an event early if there is any question of safety for the handler or the animals.