Syracuse Sun

Need to de-stress during finals week? Students at the University have the opportunity to spend time with therapy dogs through the Deborah A. Barnes Pet Therapy Program. This initiative partners with community organizations to provide pet therapy, particularly during high-stress periods like finals week.

The program features several therapy dogs, including Bella, Samuel, and Clayton. Bella is a 102-pound Bernese Mountain dog who has been part of Pet Partners of CNY for two years. Her owner, Sue Stepien, shared, “We love to get out and meet new people. The students especially, they love to chat about their pets back home.” Bella is known for her visits not only on campus but also at local hospitals and schools.

Samuel is a 90-pound Alaskan Malamute whose owner, Kim Raterman, incorporates pet therapy into her health coaching practice. Raterman noted the impact Samuel has on students: “The students’ faces light up immediately when they see Samuel... He has the ability to pick out the person in a group who needs him the most.” Samuel's visits extend beyond the University to other schools and adult day centers.

Clayton is an 8-year-old Goldendoodle who has been visiting through Pet Partners for seven years. The Vescio/Arcuri family, all certified handlers with Pet Partners of CNY, accompany Clayton to events across the community. Nick Vescio emphasized their connection with students: “They will sit down and talk about their dogs and show us pictures.”

These therapy dogs are available in the Walters Pet Therapy Room at The Barnes Center at The Arch throughout finals week.