MERIDIAN, Ida. — Most doctors will tell you the first year of medical school can be rough so the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine made it a little easier with a different kind of ruff.
Therapy dogs are helping new students deal with their hectic routine. The dogs are trained to ease worries and it's all backed by science--studies show petting a dog can lower your blood pressure.
"I think having an opportunity for the dogs to come in is something that's good because it helps you take your mind off of stressful things. Just having someone there to pet and hug is really nice," said first-year medical student Victoria Marinas.
The dogs, Bernie and Rico, are being brought in as students wrap up their neurology exams. The pups are provided by a non-profit called Helping Idaho Dogs, Inc. For more information, click here.
