WEB EXCLUSIVE While many students were studying for exams, finishing projects, and editing essays, two furry companions visited the Broadview Campus this afternoon for a study break.  

Two service dogs from the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, accompanied by their handlers, arrived at the end of B Period and played with students throughout the lunch hour.

“I thought the puppies were a nice treat for us,” sophomore Madison Lerseth said. “It has been a very stressful week and it was so fun to pet them.”

Bombay, a three-year-old English chocolate lab, sat with students while Charlie, a two-year-old golden retriever, posed for pictures with students.

“The [service] dogs were really adorable,” sophomore Simona Nigusse said. “Playing with them relieved a lot of stress and made me happier.”

Support animals reduce stress levels and minimize anxiety, according to a HelpGuide.org study.

“Seeing their cute faces made me forget about finals week for five minutes,” Lerseth said. “I am already looking forward to the dogs next year because they are a nice way to help me get through finals week.”