By: Fatima Abu-Rumman
On Friday Nov. 30, students had the opportunity to gather on the SAB Green outside Kirk Hall to destress before finals by petting dogs, eating pizza, getting messages, and playing a few games. The purpose of the event was to give students a chance to relax and have fun before entering the grueling challenge of finals week. The event began at 11:00 a.m. and continued through 1:00 p.m., with pizza arriving around 12:00 p.m.
There were 5 dogs at the event for students to pet and play with, as well as their owners, whom students spoke with discussing anything from the dogs themselves to the upcoming winter break. The area was set up with chairs for the owners to sit in as well as an abundance of water bowls to keep the dogs nice and hydrated.
The first dog to arrive was Katie the Doberman. She was dressed in an adorable Santa outfit to keep her warm in the chilly weather. Katie, who was a very sweet and loving dog, regularly visits nursing homes and hospitals to soothe and cheer up the residents who look forward to her visits. Katie is a short hair dog and her breed is known to get cold very easily. In order to keep Katie nice and cozy, her owner has plenty of blankets and sweaters that help keep her warm.
Credit: Fatima Abu-Rumman
Also in attendance was a small dog named Lou, who had a spunky personality and he enjoyed taking a drink from every water bowl to see which had the tastiest water. Tucker was another small dog of the Chinaranian breed. The Chinaranian is a cross between a Chinese Crested and a Pomeranian. From talking with Tuckers owners, it was learned that the Chinese Crested breed is often hairless, however, some are born with fur. These dogs which are born with fur are referred to as Powderpuff. Tucker’s mother was a powderpuff and Tucker himself had hair rather than fur which was very soft and the tan color of most Pomeranians.
However. Because of his very sensitive skin, receives a bath once a week and a trim every 2 weeks from his owners in order to keep his hair and skin healthy. Summer, was a very energetic Collie who loved running up in between people’s legs. She was having a ball running around a circle of people, receiving pets all around. Lastly was sweet Mandy, a 6-year-old golden retriever. Mandy visits two hospitals every week and at first, stayed at a distance from the others so she could become acquainted to the smaller dogs.
Credit: Fatima Abu-Rumman
In addition to the dogs, there were also 3 massage chairs set up where students and faculty could sign up for a quick but thorough session to relax their muscles and mind. Next to the massage chairs was a double-sided board where on one side students could write a response to the prompt, “I’m going to” or “I know I can”. The other side had the prompt, “Think Positive! Today is beautiful because”. Students left messages to encourage their fellow peers and remind each other of their importance in the universe.
Finally, the last area for fun and relaxing activities was an extra-large Checker Board, as well as an extra-large Battleship board for students to play against one another in a fun and unique manner.
Anastasia Cheberko a junior and Biology, Biomedical Health and Sciences major said, “the event was a great way to unwind and relax before next week”. Cheberko continued, “when I participate in events like this it is nice to momentarily think about something other than classes, tests, papers, and projects.”
Hunter Chavis a sophomore and Business Administration major said, “I enjoyed coming and petting the different dogs as well as talking to their owners. It was insightful to learn about some of the different breeds and routines they have.”
Credit: Fatima Abu-Rumman
There were smiles all around as students laughed and enjoyed their time together.
The event brought students together for a fun and relaxing few hours, where they were able to mingle and encourage one another before entering into finals week. The event organizers ensure the community that it will be repeated on the Friday before finals week in the future.
