LaRussa's ARF Critters Help Cal Students with Exam Jitters

By Jean Smith, UC Public Affairs

They can’t take finals for Cal students, but these dogs can, and do, provide some much-needed relief from the pressures of academic study.

On Monday, several therapy dogs and their handlers from Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) greeted students outside Moffitt Undergraduate Library. Eager to dispense kisses and a soft shoulder to lean on, these students' best friends give unconditional support and affection to stressed undergrads and staff alike.

All dogs have earned the American Kennel Club’s canine "good citizen certificate," and they and their handlers must pass ARF’s temperament assessment. In a single month, ARF’s Pet Hug Pack makes some 166 visits to various facilities, with more than 100 handler/dog teams participating.

 For more information about its services, visit ARF.