Round of a-paws for the dogs | VTx

“We also set up a huge smorgasbord of snacks and encouraged students to take handfuls!” said Hammer. “This was during finals and we know that can be a time where you might forget to eat or need an extra pick me up. Students had a ball!”

Also during the event, students shared their personal growth over the last year on the Wall of Progress, an art project created in collaboration with Hokie Wellness.

The wall channeled the idea of progress over perfection and celebrated students’ learning and growing journey. Newman Library hosted The Wall of Progress throughout the Spring 2022 finals season.

“We came together around a student idea to show off how fantastic our dogs are, celebrate them, and connect through growth rather than perfection,” said Rami Steinruck, resident in psychology at the Cook Counseling Center, coordinator of groups, and an active member of the Animal Assisted Therapy Team.

“Although we tend to be very hard on ourselves, we quickly accept, celebrate, and love our dogs even though they are imperfect,” said Steinruck. “Maybe it’s because they are imperfect that we love them all the more!”

The events are fun and exciting for the dogs too. “These dogs love to work and they seemed to know this was set up as a time for them to shine!” said Steinruck. “They really brought their A-game, and the event seemed to beam with joy and celebration!”

“These dog events offer something unique at a time students may need it most,” said Steinruck. “Students work hard all semester and they are stressed. Offering them a time to connect and reduce stress is very beneficial. The energy at these events is awesome! Most of all, I hope the students feel loved, included, valued, and cared for!”

There will be more opportunity for students and the beloved canines to be festive. Derek will celebrate his birthday in Newman Library in October, and Josie will have her turn in November.

“I’m passionate about helping to showcase the play, joy, and care that can happen in a library because I know it means a lot to students, and it can really make a difference,” said Hammer.

Beginning Aug. 25 and continuing through Sept. 29, Special Collections and University Archives will host a new exhibit in memory of therapy dog Moose. Before his passing in 2020, Moose starred in several library videos including, “How to Find and Check Out a Book.” The exhibit will celebrate Moose’s legacy. Trent Davis, Moose’s handler and coordinator of Animal Assisted Therapy, will be donating some of Moose’s memorabilia to Special Collections and University Archives where it will be displayed in its exhibit windows.