City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) recently welcomed back the much-loved ‘Professor Paws’, attracting over a thousand students who participated enthusiastically. Organised in collaboration with Animals Asia, this therapy dog programme has returned for the 11th consecutive year, bringing smiles and stress relief to the CityUHK community of staff and students.

Part of the ongoing collaboration between CityUHK’s Student Development Services (SDS) and Animals Asia since 2015, the event allows students to interact with certified therapy dogs through paw-shakes, cuddles and selfies. All “Professor Paws” have experience providing comfort in hospitals, care homes and schools, making them perfect buddies for the bustling the University environment.

The visit of “Professor Paws” offers students a break, lowers their stress levels and fosters a sense of connection, while also promoting kindness and compassion towards animals. Many students described their furry friends as genuine and heart-warming companions, who helped them temporarily forget the busy academic life and unwind from the pressure.

Stay tuned for the next visit of Professor Paws at CityUHK – where wagging tails continue to spread joy and kindness on campus!