Therapy Dog Utilization on a University Campus and the Effect on Stress, Anxiety, and University Connection

The purpose of this non-experimental, descriptive study was to determine the effects that regular, brief visits with therapy dogs may have on the stress, anxiety, and university connection of college students who live in the residence halls via a qualitative research design involving the use of observations, questionnaires, and individual interviews. The study involved a sample (n = 6) of undergraduate students who engaged in observed visits with therapy dogs and their handlers over the course of three to four weeks. Students completed a pre-and-post Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) questionnaire and a final interview. Based on the findings of this study, university connection provides one of the more significant areas for discussion and further investigation. Regular visits with therapy dogs appeared to have a stronger effect on stress reduction in participants than on anxiety levels. The findings of this study support the utilization of therapy dogs in stress reduction on a university campus. Even though the majority of participants perceived that the visits lessened their anxiety and stress, the DASS questionnaire did not support the self-assessment of at least one participant. Data collected from this study indicate that the two to four 20- to 30-minute visits over the course of four weeks had no consistent effects on anxiety. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]