In the whirlwind of deadlines, extracurricular activities, and social lives that define college life, an unexpected source of comfort emerges: dogs. These furry companions have the power to transform the high-stress environment of college campuses, offering mental and physical health benefits to their student owners.
Dr. Dawn Melzer, a Psychology professor at Sacred Heart University who specializes in canine cognition, illuminates the profound advantages of dog ownership among college students. “Dogs are considered part of a student’s social support network,” said Melzer. “The attachment and emotional closeness of the relationship with the dog have been found to decrease anxiety and depression levels.”
Considering the demanding lifestyle of college students, it’s natural to wonder about the specific health benefits they can derive from owning a dog. Research conducted by Barker et al. in 2020 emphasizes that while dog ownership entails significant commitments, the benefits far outweigh the additional obligations. Dogs become integral members of a student’s support system, offering companionship and emotional support during times of stress.
Source: Instagram, @shu_sweetpeered
Source: Instagram, @shu_sweetpeered
“Anecdotally we hear from students that they feel less stress when they are around their dogs, but their dogs are often at their family’s homes and not near campus,” said Melzer.
Melzer’s research dives deeper into the effects of therapy dogs, specifically on academic stress among college students. Collaborating with her research team, which includes Drs. Yeater, Pierce, and a dedicated research assistant conducted studies using both behavioral assessments, such as questionnaires, and physiological measures, like assessing cortisol levels—the primary stress hormone.
Their findings are remarkable: even a brief 10-minute interaction with a therapy dog significantly reduced stress levels. This suggests that the presence of therapy dogs on college campuses could alleviate the pressures of academic life.
As colleges increasingly recognize the importance of supporting students’ mental well-being, the role of dogs in promoting a positive campus environment cannot be overstated. From providing companionship to alleviating stress, these four-legged friends offer invaluable support to students navigating the challenges of higher education.
