This semester, join us as Milner Library goes to the dogs.

Campus’s favorite furry friends will be back on the third floor of Illinois State University’s Milner Library this semester, reducing stress while spreading smiles.

PAWSitively Stress Free is a free event co-sponsored by Health Promotion and Wellness and Milner Library that brings therapy dogs and other stress-relieving activities to the third floor of the library. PAWSitively Stress Free dogs are certified through Therapy Dogs International and are provided by Town and Country Kennel Club in Bloomington.

Illinois State students report stress as one of their top barriers to academic success. While stress is a necessary and unavoidable part of life, too much of it can be harmful.

Research shows that for some, just a few minutes of petting a dog can lower the body’s level of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. Reducing cortisol levels lowers your blood pressure and helps you feel relaxed. Lessening your stress will allow you to be able to focus better on studying and projects.

Additional stress management resources are available through Health Promotion and Wellness, such as mindfulness classes, a free guided meditation, massage offered on campus, and interactive workshops.

What: Certified therapy dogs, coloring, and other stress-relieving activities and information
When: Fall 2016

  • Wednesday, September 14, from 2–4 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 12, from 2–4 p.m.
  • Wednesday, October 26, from 2–4 p.m.
  • Wednesday, November 9, from 2–4 p.m.
  • Monday, December 12, from 2–6 p.m. (Finals week with free chair massage provided by certified massage therapist from Aches Away)
  • Tuesday, December 13, from 2–6 p.m. (Finals week with free chair massage provided by certified massage therapist from Aches Away)

Where: Third floor, Milner Library
Cost: Free
Registration: Not needed

Need your furry fix now? Check out this video shot last year that tells you more about the program: