CANINE CORNER

Campus Animal Therapy Center

Canine Corner is a tranquil, comforting, safe animal therapy center designed for the University of Alabama's campus to alleviate the stress of college life for students. Soothing tones of soft whites and grays are complemented with crimson-red accents to bring energy into the space. The space utilizes large, expansive windows bringing natural light in to create biophilia. Students can interact with furry friends in the gated playpen area where community and shared joy for animals are fostered. Students can also interact with the animals in a solace private room. Students will experience the therapeutic affects of being surrounded by animals while creating a haven for students to unwind, recharge, and take a break from the everyday demands of university life.

RESEARCH

Animal therapy, particularly with dogs is used to provide affection, comfort, and support to people who struggle with stress and anxiety. This encourages students to perceive counseling services as more accessible and less negatively connotated.
According to ct.counseling.org, research shows that animals can reduce our chemical reactions to depression, stress, anxiety, and other various mental disorders.
The Mayo Clinic also found in a study that 20-minute sessions in animal therapy can increase oxytocin levels (happiness hormone) up to 130 - 300%.

American Psychiatric Association