Life is stressful. It is scary. It is overwhelming and relentless. But it is also kind, patient, loving and good. It’s difficult to remember that when negative information is the only thing being fed to our feeds. In 2017, NMU alumna Anna Dravland sought to establish a day to remind the NMU community that even the smallest acts of goodness can have massive benefits on those around us.

Now, nine years later, NMU has created an entire week dedicated to spreading goodness. One of the most beloved events of this week and beyond is the Wildpups meet and greet, when a group of adorable service dogs — and one cat — bring their fluffy friendliness to campus.

On Thursday, March 12, the Wildpups made their Goodness Week appearance on the first floor of the new library, where each service animal received its own space to roam and receive love.

This year, eight dogs were in attendance: Moon, a gentle Burmese; Maude, a beautiful golden retriever; Willow, a friendly goldendoodle; Franklin, an award-winning springer spaniel; Pippa, an energetic border collie; Ben, an observant poodle mix; Millie, an elegant English cocker spaniel; and Teddy, an adorable shih tzu mix.

Jessica Corkin, Teddy’s trainer, loves the Wildpups program and was eager to present her pup to the people once he became a certified service dog.

“My husband and I adopted Teddy as a puppy at two weeks, but it wasn’t until we both started working at Northern that we introduced him to the Wildpups,” said Corkin. “We had heard about the program, and since Teddy loves bringing joy, we reached out to the coordinator. Now we’ve been doing it for two years.”

Along with Teddy, each of the pups brought their own unique personality to the event, sharing them with every student who took the time to give a good belly rub. One unique aspect of the Wildpups is that they have been clinically proven to lower stress and improve physical, mental and emotional health.

“What I think is really cool is that the nursing department has researched the effects the Wildpups have on participants,” said Corkin. “Spending time with the pups reduces stress and lowers blood pressure. That and the joy and comfort the animals bring, especially if students have pets back home.”

Goodness and joy can seem hard to find as we enter the final weeks of the school year. Homework, assignments, exams, passing or failing — it can be a lot to handle. What’s important to remember is that goodness can always be found, as long as you’re willing to look for it.

“I think that’s a big part of why this program exists,” said Corkin. “To bring joy and comfort to people.”