Freshmen recently arrived on campus, and on Wednesday, their canine cohorts welcomed them with a variety of events to celebrate National Dog Day.

In celebration, Pete’s Pet Posse held 13 meet-and-greets at various locations around campus. While Waggin’ Wednesday regularly brings therapy dogs to students, this celebration expanded the program beyond its usual visit.

“For P3, it gives us another opportunity to bring our teams together with students and celebrate the human-animal bond,” said Kendria Cost, director of the Ann Hargis OSU Center for Pet Therapy. “More than anything, we hope students walk away feeling a little lighter than when they arrived.”

Waggin’ Wednesday is one of OSU’s longest-running standing visits and happens every Wednesday from 2-3 p.m. in the south lobby of Edmon Low Library. It allows students to drop in between classes, unwind and interact with the dogs and their handlers.

Noelle Scott, a studio arts senior, frequently attends Waggin’ Wednesday to make connections and relax.

“It's just a good way to de-stress and get all of the school stuff off of your mind for even just a few minutes,” Scott said. “That's important to do.”

The dogs often draw an instant reaction from students.

“The response is almost always immediate — you see smiles, excitement and students literally changing direction when they spot a P3 dog,” Cost said. “Many students tell us they miss their own pets at home, so having the opportunity to spend a few minutes with a dog can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity.”

Apprehensive around dogs? Summer Manley, a new P3 handler, said the program provides a safe environment for both students and dogs.

“I say you just come and look at them,” Manley said. “They don't have to interact with the dogs. They can just kind of see and just ease their way into it.”

Manley’s dog, Mocha, is a new member of P3 and has undergone extensive training to be comfortable in crowds and in the loud environment of a college campus.

The dogs are an ongoing presence in the campus community. In addition to attending special events, they offer support to those experiencing stress, grief and times of crisis. Sometimes, their role is as simple as providing a moment of joy during a student’s day.

For questions or to schedule Pete’s Pet Posse for an event, contact pettherapy@okstate.edu or call 405-744-PUPS (7877).

National Dog Day Students interact with canine cohorts on campus

Story By: Rachel Teran | rachel.teran10@okstate.edu