Stress is a familiar part of daily life at Jefferson, but on certain days, it is interrupted by something unexpected: therapy dogs. During lunch, students gather for a chance to step away from academics and spend a few minutes with therapy dogs brought in to help them relax. The dogs have been brought to the school periodically, offering brief visits designed to give students a mental break in the middle of the day. As word spreads, small groups form around them, creating a noticeably calmer school day.
“It was nice getting to see the dogs,” freshman Alexander Serrano said. “I was in a little bit of a bad mood, but I feel a bit happier now.”
Even short interactions can have an effect. Students who stop by often leave smiling, having taken a moment to reset before returning to class.
“I think it definitely helps with stress,” Serrano said. “Everybody at [Jefferson] is usually stressed, so this is a helpful way to relieve that.”
For many, the experience is new but quickly becomes something to look forward to, as the trained dogs interact with students by responding to commands and performing simple tricks.
“[The dog is] just really cute, and it’s so fun to see him do little tricks.” freshman Akshana Karthik said.
While therapy dogs may not appeal to everyone, they provide a meaningful outlet for many students.
“I think this helps people who enjoy the presence of animals,” Karthik said. “Especially for people who love dogs, it would be not only relaxing but super fun.”
With positive reviews, many students see themselves coming back after seeing how it affected them.
“It was honestly really relaxing, and I could see myself coming back,” Karthik said.