Campus Safety Hosts DCS & Dogs Event
by Christina Borao, NYU Presidential Intern and DCS & Dogs Co-Event Coordinator
The "DCS & Dogs" event held on December 8th, 2023, by the NYU Department of Campus Safety was a resounding success, providing a welcome break from the pressures of finals season. To promote stress relief and emotional well-being, the Department of Campus Safety collaborated with New York Therapy Animals to offer the NYU community an opportunity to interact with registered therapy dogs.
The event took place at 561 LaGuardia Place, which houses the Campus Safety Operations Division's Security Services Unit, and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for NYU community members who need assistance from uniformed Campus Safety personnel. DCS transformed the space into a welcoming area for both two-legged and four-legged attendees.
Students, faculty, and staff eagerly awaited the arrival of the therapy dogs. The therapy dogs, accompanied by their dedicated handlers, displayed warmth and calmness. NYU community members could be seen smiling and sharing stories as they spent quality time with the furry therapists.
Throughout the event, participants were encouraged to interact with the dogs and engage in casual conversations with the handlers. The dogs - Melodie, Tosty, and Frank - demonstrated their incredible ability to sense emotions, providing a soothing experience for everyone who attended. The calm atmosphere, combined with the dogs' gentle demeanor, created a perfect setting for relaxation and stress relief.
Students, in particular, benefited greatly from the event as they were able to momentarily escape the pressures of upcoming exams. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to de-stress and recharge before returning to their studies. DCS personnel and NYU faculty and staff members also found comfort in the event, as it provided a brief break from their demanding schedules.
"DCS & Dogs" served as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the value of community support during demanding times. As the event came to an end, over 70 attendees departed feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
