Classes ended today at UMASS, Amherst Campus. Some students were heading into their first exams today, others were studying hard for exams to be taken during exam week. Students were ready for a break – and today they received the best distraction of all… a chance to spend time with the 14 Bright Spot Therapy Dogs that attended The Big Chill, an event designed to provide some fun and distraction from the rigors and stress of studying.
The lawn in front of Goodell Hall was transformed into a Fun Fest for students, with food booths, music, bouncy houses, and lots more. All that was set up paled by comparison to our wonderful Bright Spot Therapy Dogs. All of the dogs were surrounded throughout the 4-hour period by students either taking a study break, coming off an exam, or heading in to one. Thousands of students thronged the site.
Students texted one another to get over to Goodell lawn and meet the terrific Therapy Dogs. One student said that she hadn’t seen a dog in so long that she felt like crying. Many said the hardest thing about being away at college is missing their beloved dogs. Several students inquired about getting involved with Therapy Dog visiting and the type of training a dog needs to become a Therapy Dog. Staff came out on break or lunch period to pet the dogs. One person looked out her office window, saw our Bright Spot Frankie, an adorable Pug, and came running out to meet her and ask about becoming a member of Bright Spot.
Bright Spot was well-represented by: 3 Golden Retrievers – Brinkley, Niles & Caber, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel named Velvet, a Yellow Lab named Haas, 2 Great Danes – Lilo & Tucker, Frankie – the Pug, Bud – the Border Collie, my English Setter Lily (the Birthday Girl), a tiny Chihuahua named Winston, a German Shepherd named Gus, an adorable Mixed-Breed named Cassey, and a gentle, sweet Rhodesian Ridgeback named Athena. All 14 dogs showed the well-trained manners and friendly outgoing temperaments that are the hallmarks of a good Therapy Dog.
As the Executive Director of Bright Spot Therapy Dogs, I am extremely proud of these dogs at today’s event. And, I never cease to be in awe of our dedicated human volunteers who give countless hours sharing their beloved dogs with others… bringing comfort to those who need it most.
A special THANK YOU to Maggie Holly, a UMASS junior who arranged our visit to campus today. Right now, I think she is one of the most popular people on campus. Everyone was so happy that she made this happen today. This is the first of our Therapy Dog Exam-DeStressing events. We are most definitely looking forward to doing more. Students – GOOD LUCK on your exams…. after today, you must feel much more relaxed!