TMU campus is not only a hub for learning but also a furry friend haven for dogs, providing stress relief and companionship for students

By: Amulyaa Dwivedi

The parks around Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) are filled with life, from the squirrels to the pigeons to the rare chipmunks. But the royalty of the TMU quads are the dogs walking their humans.

Walking with a dog can be a bonding experience for both the pet and the owner as they enjoy the sights and sounds of the environment together. Different breeds of dogs have different energy levels, so walks can range from leisurely strolls to brisk jogs.

While on your way to your class, to meet your friends or just to go around the city and have a fun day, you may have encountered dogs on walks.

University can be a stressful time for students, as they face a variety of academic and social pressures. In addition to studying and attending classes, many students also work part-time jobs, participate in extracurricular activities and try to maintain a social life. Living in downtown Toronto can also add to the stress, as the bustling city can be overwhelming for some students. Spending time with a furry companion can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, improve mood and promote relaxation.

In discussion with CanCulture, most students said that seeing dogs on walks helps them brighten their day. Simran Daswani, a second-year business student, said that seeing dogs walk after a long day of classes and work on campus helps boost her mood and mental relaxation.

Chase Cooper and Chiara Iannuzzi, first-year students in the School of Journalism, both live on campus at TMU “I think having dogs on campus is great and you can ask to pet them,” said Cooper. “ It’s great having dogs on campus and looking at them walking from the cafeteria in Pit quad,” said Iannuzzi.

A few TMU students also mentioned therapy dog visits organized by the university with the St. John’s Ambulance Therapy Dog Program, but were disappointed that their schedules prevented them from visiting them.`If the university could move around the dates of therapy dogs instead of having them on the same dates weekly, I would be able to attend some of them,” said Cooper.

CanCulture ventured out to chronicle the vast lives of the TMU campus dogs, each with their own unique personality and charm. Whether it’s a playful golden retriever, a loyal border collie or a regal bulldog, there’s no denying that these canine companions are a beloved part of campus life. So if you happen to come across one on your travels, be sure to stop and say hello — you might just make a new furry friend!

Bubbles

Meet Bubbles, the three-year-old Boston Terrier who has become a regular on the campus of TMU. Bubbles is accompanied by his uncle, David, who picks him up two days a week as Bubbles leads the way. David follows, relishing the simple joy of spending time with his furry friend in a welcoming and peaceful environment.

Bubbles enjoys a leisurely stroll, relishing the opportunity to explore the serene surroundings and search for squirrels. For David and Bubbles, the campus is a peaceful haven offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Despite his small size, Bubbles has made a big impression on the campus and he and David have even made some new friends during their walks. Bubbles has shown himself to be an affable companion to other dogs, although sometimes there isn’t always an attraction to every canine he meets.

David says the university should consider offering more designated spaces for canine recreation. “If they have access to suitable locations, that would be wonderful because there are an awful lot of people in the downtown core that have these little darlings and it’s important to have a safe place for them to play and exercise,” said David.

Aries

Aries, a miniature schnauzer who is 19-months-old (a baby!) accompanies his human Sandy for three daily walks at TMU. They enjoy strolling in Kerr Quad, a secured park that makes them feel at ease. Aries relishes socializing with people and students on campus, which they eagerly look forward to after the pandemic. Sandy permits Aries to run and play with squirrels by letting him off his leash. During their walks, they have befriended several other dog owners who they have met regularly for the past two years.

Sandy calls the TMU campus “a paradise.”

“I don’t think it needs any more. I think we are quite lucky just to even have this in downtown Toronto.”

Ponzu

Meet Ponzu, a three-year-old American bulldog and boxer mix rescue dog. He visits TMU at least once a week with his owner Nicole. She likes to come to the campus for walks with Ponzu because dogs are allowed to be off leash, though owners must have good control over their pets. Unlike other dog parks, there is a lesser risk of dog fights here, making it a safer environment.

Nicole often lets Ponzu off-leash to explore and smell the signs of other dogs and squirrels. She also enjoys meeting other dog owners and making new friends, especially in the mornings when many people walk their dogs before work. Nicole said TMU is a great place to walk her dog and she recommends the spot to other dog owners. Although she would appreciate more areas, she appreciates that the park allows her to bring her dog off-leash without any hassle.

Khloe

Khloe is an 8-year-old miniature schnauzer who enjoys walking and chasing squirrels around Kerr Quad once every one or two days. Due to the limited number of outdoor spaces downtown, Kerr Quad is the preferred location for Khloe and her owner Ian Baitz. He finds it safer for Khloe as there is less traffic and fewer distractions. They often encounter other dog owners, including some regulars, during their visits. “Khloe loves being in this environment and gets very excited, especially when they are walking down the street near the entrance to the quad,” Baitz said.

Sassy

Sassy is a 7-year-old chihuahua from Costa Rica who lives near TMU with her human friend Pam. Every day, Sassy’s owner takes her for walks on the TMU grounds, where they both soak in the company of other dogs and their owners. Sassy especially finds pleasure in the refreshing campus atmosphere during her walks.

Walking dogs in TMU can be a fun and rewarding experience for both furry friends and their less-furry owners. With its beautiful campus ground and pet-friendly policies, the university provides a safe and enjoyable environment for dogs to explore and play.

Whether you’re a student, faculty member or local resident, taking your paw-some pal for a walk at TMU is a great way to stay active, socialize with other dog owners and bond with your canine companion. So, grab your leash and head out for a stroll while enjoying all that this dog-friendly campus has to offer, including the added bonus of watching all the adorable pups around!