Feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork? Weekly pet therapy sessions on campus provide a much-needed respite from academic stress, and many Villanova students are finding comfort in furry companions.
The Office of Health Promotion works with organizations like Pals for Life to offer regular pet therapy sessions at Villanova. These popular sessions bring trained therapy animals to campus on Wednesdays, allowing students to step away from academic pressures and unwind. The sessions, usually held in Room 113 of the Health Service Building, are available to all students seeking comfort and relaxation, also allowing students to learn about the Office of Health Promotion and all the events that it hosts.
“One of the main goals, especially for visiting students, is to reduce stress and then produce joy,” Program Director of Pals for Life, Kristen Abbott, said. “Just by petting an animal, your brain starts making oxytocin, which lowers blood pressure and reduces your stress hormones and anxiety. Mentally, it is a nice break from studying and from all the stress of being a college student.”
There are countless advantages to pet therapy, especially when it comes to struggles with depression and anxiety. Endorphins, serotonin and oxytocin are released when people spend meaningful time with animals. These improve mood and general well-being. Pet therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who are lonely or struggling, as animals provide non-judgmental companionship.
“It’s nice to just be able to focus on a cute animal and not think about other things,” Abbott said.
Pals for Life is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the healing and therapeutic benefits of activities with animals. The organization works with a network of trained volunteers to provide comfort, companionship and emotional support to those in need.
The animals are carefully chosen based on their temperaments and trained to get along with individuals in a variety of settings. Although dogs are the most common of these animals, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and even small horses are welcome. Sprinkles the bunny has become particularly popular with Villanova students, along with therapy dogs, including Bella and Calvin.
“All our animals have to pass a test which takes about an hour,” Abbott said. “We create different scenarios they may encounter. I run, I make noises and I slam doors. The dogs must be able to get along with the bunny and not jump and bark. We want pet therapy to be good for them, and them to be good for pet therapy.”
Pet therapy is a vital part of Villanova’s wellness initiatives. The program provides students with opportunities to interact with animals, reducing stress, anxiety and loneliness. As academic pressures grow, these interactions help students feel more relaxed and at ease, promoting overall well-being. By partnering with Villanova, Pals for Life remains an essential resource in supporting these efforts and creating a healthier campus environment.
“This week, I was feeling super overwhelmed with schoolwork,” sophomore Summer Kelley said. “But after just 10 minutes with Calvin, I felt so much calmer. It’s crazy how much just petting a dog can boost your mood.”
Whether meeting Sprinkles the bunny or petting the dogs, these animals are helping students find joy in the middle of their busy schedules. They offer a source of connection, supporting those dealing with physical or mental health challenges. The next pet therapy session will be held Wednesday in Room 113 of the Health Service Building. If one is feeling overwhelmed, some special animal will be there to brighten their day.
