UNI LIFE’S GONE TO THE DOGS

THE therapeutic affects of hugging a pet are well known — and a group of Tasmanian University students swatting for exams will get a taste of that during “dog day”.

Residents of UTAS residential college Jane Franklin Hall are awaiting a visit from 10 golden retrievers and the owners as part of initiatives to support students’ mental health and wellbeing during what can be a stressful period.

Jane Franklin Hall principal Joanna Rosewell said many students reported missing their family pets when they were residents at Jane.

“Pets provide us with much- needed support, companionship and unconditional affection,” Ms Rosewell said.

“Studies have shown that playing with a dog or cat can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax humans, so we decided to bring the dogs in again to support the positive mental health and wellbeing.”

UTAS agricultural science student and student club president Caitlyn Badcock, of Deloraine, said she, along with many other residents, had struggled through a lonely year of isolation and restrictions due to COVID- 19.

“The staff and faculty at Jane have provided us with much- needed assistance and support for our mental health at all stages throughout the year, but not being able to visit family and pets has been enormously difficult,” Ms Badcock said. “Dog day is one of the best days at Jane and it is much needed at exam time when the pressure is on.”