Four-legged friends bring comfort to NIC students

North Idaho College students received a surprise visit from furry friends this week at Molstead Library. 

Zala, a black labradoodle, was one of two licensed therapy dogs that provided a calming presence while students studied.

“She reminds me of my dog,” student Tyson Beckett said as he stroked Zala’s black curls. She rested her head in his lap.

“It’s a connection to something peaceful,” said Sue Stiles, Zala’s handler. “It’s reminiscing, if they’re missing their own dogs.”

Stiles quietly led Zala through the library. Some students gave her a few pats without looking away from their work. Others took a break from studying to spend time with the mellow-mannered dogs and chat with their handlers.

“Their owners were super nice and they had great information. They really knew their animals,” student Sydney McDonald said. “They were super open to chatting with us.”

Zala’s visit to the library is part of a series of activities at NIC this week aimed at promoting student wellness, such as a stress management workshop Tuesday, yoga in the library Thursday, a movie night, and free snacks and coffee.

Also on display at the library is a photo exhibit titled “Canine Bridge,” which features photographs of dogs. The exhibit centers on the question, “What quality in your dog would you like to see in people?”

The photos explore qualities such as acceptance, unconditional love and a willingness to learn. Zala is featured in the exhibit, and Stiles is one of six photographers who curated it.

The “Canine Bridge” exhibit was initially presented at ArtWalk in 2024 by Braver Lens, a collaboration between national nonprofit Braver Angels and Interfaith Photovoice. Amy Hebert, who owns a greeting card business featuring her dog, Arty, was a lead organizer of the project.

Hebert collaborated with NIC librarians Amanda Roberts and Kristin Soederlind to bring “Canine Bridge” to NIC.

“Dogs can be a great example of how to interact with people,” Hebert said. “People say dogs are man’s best friend. Why? If we could all be more like them, the world would be healthier.”

Hebert said the exhibit is a fitting addition to NIC’s wellness activities this week, because spending time with dogs like Zala can lower cortisol levels and increase oxytocin, helping reduce stress.

“They bring down those emotions and get to that level where you can have a conversation,” Hebert said. “The whole point is to start the exhibit, and when you get to the end you feel good, and you feel like having a conversation.”

 

    NIC student Evelyn Fenton says hi to therapy dog Zala and her handler Sue Stiles on Monday.

 

    The "Canine Bridge" photo exhibit at the NIC library this week.