At the University of South Carolina, a unique course called Canine Fitness and Connection is offering students a chance to combine physical activity with volunteer work at a local animal shelter. The course, which invites around 25 students each semester, encourages participants to engage with shelter dogs while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.
USC’s physical activities program, directed by Gary Nave, regularly offers innovative courses tailored to student interests. In the past, the university has offered options like Zumba and Quidditch, but changing trends require new approaches. Nave’s search for fresh ideas led him to Puppy Play, a similar course offered by Auburn University from 2014 to 2017. He saw the potential to combine physical exercise with the therapeutic benefits of interacting with animals.
“We know that interacting with animals can reduce stress and anxiety, and many of our physical activity courses already help students manage these issues,” Nave explained. “Pairing the two seemed like a natural fit.”
The course works in partnership with Final Victory Animal Rescue in West Columbia, a short drive from the USC campus. Students who enroll in the course often have some experience with dogs, but it also offers a chance for those less familiar with pets to step out of their comfort zone.
Before each class, students are assigned reading or videos, followed by a short 15-minute lecture. The remaining 90 minutes of the class is spent on dog care, including walking, grooming, feeding, and cleaning kennels. Nave emphasizes that the course goes beyond simple dog walking—students learn about canine behavior, animal care, and the responsibilities of owning a pet.
As part of the course, students track their steps using a pedometer or smartphone app, submitting their step count as part of their grade. By the end of the semester, students also take part in a project where they spend a day with a dog outside the shelter. They assess the dog’s behavior and share feedback with shelter staff, helping to ensure a good match for the dog’s future home. Additionally, students take photos and videos of the dogs, which are used to promote the animals for adoption.
The course has gained strong interest. Students have expressed how much they enjoy the opportunity to work with animals and develop skills that extend beyond the classroom. Some have even gone on to foster or adopt the dogs they worked with during the course. The physical activity component is also significant: students walk an average of 2.5 miles per session, totaling around 7,000 steps each week.
The course not only benefits the students but also supports the local community. Students connect with a philanthropic organization and learn from experienced professionals in dog care and handling. Nave believes this blend of learning and giving back is what makes the course so valuable.
“The class has shown that physical activity combined with animal interaction can be incredibly rewarding,” Nave said. “It’s definitely worth considering if other institutions want to offer something similar.”
For universities looking to replicate the course, Nave suggests starting with a survey to gauge student interest. It’s also crucial to partner with a local animal shelter and assess any potential risks involved in working with animals, such as the need for waivers or other safety measures.
In addition to USC’s program, several other universities have recognized the positive impact that dogs can have on student well-being. Schools like Quinsigamond Community College, Saint Louis University, and Nazareth College have incorporated therapy dogs into their campuses to help students manage stress. For some, the appeal of working with animals may be more than just a passing interest—it can become a life-changing experience.
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