“One of the most stressful times of the year is the week before finals,” Grand View Librarian Cara Stone said.

Stone started Pet-a-Pup about four years ago. She heard of other academic libraries throughout the country that bring in therapy or service dogs in training to help students relieve stress. Stone considers herself a “dog-lover,” so she was very excited to start Pet-a-Pup at Grand View.

“Pet-a-Pup is one of the ways to help students take a moment, take a breath, and then go back to their study feeling refreshed and renewed,” Stone said.

When students feel that they need to take a break every once in a while to relieve stress, Stone says Pet-a-Pup is just what they need.

Students stop by for some snuggles in between classes.

Ryan Roy enjoying a break with the therapy dog.

Students showing their love and relieving stress.

Therapy dog with Missy Farni.

Therapy dog waiting for attention.

Students circled around the dog.

Brigid Ernst spending time with the therapy dog.