College life can be overwhelming, but sometimes, all you need is a furry friend to make things feel a little lighter. At the University of Arizona, two popular events at the Health Promotion Hideaway inside Bear Down Gym do just that — bringing dogs and cats to campus to help students unwind and build community.
Pawse for Pets takes place every Monday from 2-4 p.m. in the lounge area of the Health Promotion Hideaway. Students have the chance to relax on beanbags and cuddle Grace, a golden retriever rescued by longtime volunteer Judy from the Humane Society. Before entering, students scan their CatCards, as attendance helps support the department’s grant funding.
Meanwhile, Chat with Cats is an even bigger event. Held on select Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m., students line up to spend time with playful kittens from two local organizations: the Hermitage No-Kill Cat Shelter and Hunter’s Kitten Lounge. The kittens are given a classroom space to roam and play, and students are admitted in groups of 15 for 10–15 minutes of interaction.
“These events really bring joy to students,” said health educator Amy Amaya. “College can be difficult, and sometimes cuddling a fur buddy is exactly what you need to de-stress.”
Beyond stress relief, these animal events have become a way for students to connect with one another. The Hideaway has grown into a small community where students gather not only for comfort but also to meet others who share a love for animals.
“From surveys we’ve done, Chat with Cats is the event students request the most,” Amaya said. “We’re actually the only place on campus that brings cats to students!”
These programs are made possible through a partnership with Campus Health. The Health Promotion team coordinates with local shelters and approved volunteers, schedules visits and ensures a safe, relaxed environment for both students and animals.
Students can check out Pawse for Pets on Mondays from 2-4 p.m. and Chat with Cats on select Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. Check out the Campus Health website to see the schedule for the rest of the semester.
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