“AWWW!!! THEY’RE SO CUTE!” That’s right students, get ready to start saying that a lot because the puppies are coming on December 9 in the Library Loggia from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., and December 10 on the stage in Building 8 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Started by Peter Bolmida, Puppies On Campus is favorite event here at Sinclair and it’s been going on since 2012. Bolmida, who is an academic advisor, talked to Carolyn Worthen, Program Director for Tech Vets and Advisor for Dogs On Campus, came up with an event to help students to relieve stress.
“Stats show that animals help relieve stress and can lower people’s blood pressure,” Worthen said.
The puppies make their appearance on campus at the start of the semester and at the end of the semester.
“We have it at the beginning of the semester for students who are just starting college and at the end of semester to help relieve stress from final exams,” said Worthen.
Puppies On Campus is sponsored by Sinclair Talks and Health Science Career Community, and has been a success, according to Worthen. “We will be hosting puppies from 4 Paws for Ability,” said Worthen.
For more information, visit www.4pawsforability.org. 4 Paws for Ability, who collaborate with Worthen, often times bring about six to 12 puppies each year. 200 students attend this event every year, but there are some students here that get their emotions involved, according to Worthen.
“Some people get emotional and tear up because they have lost their dog. Some people are just happy because the puppies have made their day,” said Worthen.
This event is important to students because it gives them a break from stress and the freak out over final exams. Worthen said it gives students a great opportunity to release anxiety.
“We are doing this to provide stress relief to students and faculty [and] staff,” said Worthen.
Worthen said she is happy that students are enjoying this event—it makes her and her dog happy to see that. She said it’s about feeling less stressed and happy.
“Sinclair is interested in the students, and is wanting to keep Sinclair students happy,” said Worthen.
De’Andre Stringer
Reporter