by Kate Betts, contributor
On Oct. 3, delighted shrieks echoed in the Spring House lobby as passing students caught glimpses of what they knew to be a sure release from stress and worry. Relaxation and smiles came in the form of Sophie, a fluffy white German Shepherd who visits Spring House for the express purpose of being petted and fussed over by students in need of some relaxation. The pure magic of the moment is incredible to witness: a beautiful laid-back dog lying patiently in front of a crowd of students who are all laughing and grinning, reaching forward to pet and cuddle the extremely calm and lovable dog. Sophie’s Oct. 3 visit will be followed by another on Oct. 24 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Spring House.
Many SCAD students can relate to being a bit anxious, stressed out or overly tired and the effect this beautiful dog has on them is incredible to witness. The light that twinkles in passing students eyes, the feeling and urge to kneel down to pet and fuss over Sophie, the squeals and exclamations of, “look at the cute doggie!” and the excitement in the room are only a few of the effects this canine companion has on people.
When asked how Sophie helps her to de-stress, Nadine Promes, a first-year animation student, replied “So many other thoughts surrounding Sophie came into my mind and for a moment I forgot all other worries…her color also caught my eye…unique and beautiful things attract me.” As an attention-getter Sophie is a champion. Her friendly expression and doggie charm are irresistible, and after a petting session all worries and troubles seem instantly more manageable. Interacting with Sophie is a surefire way to calm the busy trains of thought shooting through the mind and to genuinely relax and smile. Allyssa Davis, a first-year animation and dramatic writing major, said that Sophie helped her relax by “just being there” and “being able to pet her” was extremely rewarding. Sophie works wonders because she is so cute and cuddly.
Promes’s favorite part of Dog Therapy Night was, “walking into the common room and finding Sophie there, right away whatever I was thinking or whatever conversation I was having was forgotten, I immediately kneeled down next to her and started patting her, she’s so adorable.” Promes continued “it’s way easier to interact with them than with humans…So it’s always easy to be yourself, since they don’t judge and all.” Davis explained that “…the fact that she was there made me happy. I love animals in general, but I’ve got a special place for dogs”.
When asked if she would attend Sophie’s next visit, Davis exclaimed “Yes. In fact, I don’t even think that should be a question.” And she’s not the only one looking forward to the next Therapy Dog Night. First-year animation student Kara Robson is likewise “super excited” to attend the next session. It’s an event that many are looking forward to.