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Photo by: Duke Athletics
Take a “Paws”
12/10/2019 12:26:00 PM | Athletics
DURHAM, N.C. -- Duke Athletics put on its annual Paws 4 Exams program on Monday, December 9. The Paws 4 Exams program provides Duke student-athletes a study break during their reading period before exams start on Wednesday. The last day of classes for the fall semester was on Friday, December 6. Over 90 student-athletes visited with Izzie, Aspen, Beau, Mosey, and Bailey in the K Center Classroom from 11 a.m to 2 p.m ,on Monday.
"Being able to come in and play with the dogs is a great way to give all students a break and take the time to smile during such a busy time," said freshman women's golfer Megan Furtney.
Studies have shown that petting friendly dogs helps lower blood pressure, slows heart rate, and releases muscle tension. As the pressure of finishing the semester on a strong note builds, therapy animals and programs like Paws 4 Exams increase socialization and a sense of community, while also decreasing anxiety. Duke University restricts students' access to pets on campus, so Paws 4 Exams gives the student-athletes an outlet to enjoy a friendly pet, which they appreciate as many of the students have pets in their homes.
Freshman Wyatt Pfau of the Duke wrestling team commented, "Being around the dogs gives me an excuse to take a break and just relax. It is a nice reminder of home before finals begin."
Duke Athletics is thankful to Lisa Wells, Lauren Maggart, Vera Shanley, and Duke Assistant Athletic Trainer, Melissa Gresham, for their efforts in supporting Duke student-athletes.
#GoDuke
"Being able to come in and play with the dogs is a great way to give all students a break and take the time to smile during such a busy time," said freshman women's golfer Megan Furtney.
Studies have shown that petting friendly dogs helps lower blood pressure, slows heart rate, and releases muscle tension. As the pressure of finishing the semester on a strong note builds, therapy animals and programs like Paws 4 Exams increase socialization and a sense of community, while also decreasing anxiety. Duke University restricts students' access to pets on campus, so Paws 4 Exams gives the student-athletes an outlet to enjoy a friendly pet, which they appreciate as many of the students have pets in their homes.
Freshman Wyatt Pfau of the Duke wrestling team commented, "Being around the dogs gives me an excuse to take a break and just relax. It is a nice reminder of home before finals begin."
Duke Athletics is thankful to Lisa Wells, Lauren Maggart, Vera Shanley, and Duke Assistant Athletic Trainer, Melissa Gresham, for their efforts in supporting Duke student-athletes.
#GoDuke
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