The JILA Association of Graduate Students (JAGS) recently hosted a stress-relief event featuring two special guests from Go Team Therapy Dogs. The friendly therapy dogs had just walked over from the CU Rec Center, where they were greeted by over 200 students, before making their way to JILA.

JILAns gathered to spend time with the dogs, enjoying their calming presence while sipping coffee and hot cocoa provided by JAGS. The event offered a perfect opportunity for researchers and staff to step away from their desks and experiments, recharge, and connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting. For many, the simple joy of petting the dogs and sharing a few lighthearted moments provided a valuable mental reset.

This event, organized by JILA JAGS, highlighted the importance of self-care and community in a demanding research environment, especially during the last few weeks of the fall 2024 semester. By bringing Go Team Therapy Dogs to JILA, JAGS created a refreshing pause in the day, leaving attendees feeling recharged, more connected, and ready to return to their work with renewed energy and focus.

Written by Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, JILA Science Communicator