Active MInds and Puppy Love

            Have you or someone you know been looking for an affectionate companion? Are you in search of unconditional love? How about a warm and furry friend? The Active Minds Club at Albany LBCC and the Safe Haven Humane Society may be able to help you!

            With the sound of padded feet and the touch of a warm nose the Active Minds Club recently brought LBCC a little “Puppy Love” through their efforts with “Safe Haven.” Students and staff as well as the community were invited to enjoy time with rescued dogs from the local shelter this Valentine’s Day past as an alternative companion for the holiday. Club member Jenna Guiziak said, “I think it’s a good idea and a good message.”

FEBRUARY 14, Active MInds members at the Puppy Love event. (Pictured far left; Jenna Guiziak, center right; Co-president Hayley Posadas, back; Club Advisor Greg Jones)

            Greg Jones said, “This (Active Minds) event in particular was made to help those without a significant other find a way to have a companion, both for the holiday and every day.” Greg, who is advisor for both the local chapter of Active Minds and LBCC’s Psychology Department, went on to say, “I absolutely recommend animal (stress) treatment. It dramatically lowers stress response. There have been connections made between mental health groups and veterinary offices in hopes to further this concept of stress response via animal interaction.”

            Co-president Hayley Posadas said, “On this particular holiday of Valentine's some people tend to become depressed. Our hope with Puppy Love is that we can encourage time with an affectionate furry friend.”

Adopt a puppy

            Originally meeting resistance when they first approached LBCC staff regarding the allowance of dogs on the campus The hard work did not go unnoticed as many attendees enjoyed heartfelt time with the animals as they were petted, groomed, and fed treats. Some of the furry friends were even adopted during the event.
            “Our club member Kaire Downin wouldn't take no for an answer and fought to allow the dogs on campus when initially the response was a resounding NO,” said Jones. 

            If you would like to adopt a pet of your own contact Safe Haven Humane Society at safehavenhumane.org.

            To contact Active Minds Local Chapter at LBCC visit facebook.com/activeminds.atlbcc or reach their parent organization at activeminds.org

By: Justin Shoemaker