After a one-year hiatus, the “Love on a Leash” therapy dogs have made their comeback to Oak Park High School’s Great Lawn.

To help students reconnect, the OPHS ITS Troupe 6074 brought people’s best friends back to campus on Wednesday, Dec. 15.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the last time the therapy dogs were seen on campus was during the 2019-2020 school year. Still, according to ITS, the reorganization of the event was simple.

“Love on a Leash made bringing the dogs back super easy,” a source from ITS said. “We were able to just make a few phone calls and they were more than happy to return to OPHS!”

The World Health Organization has reported that hugging dogs reduces depression and releases feel-good hormones, helps with relaxation, eases tension and even relieves physical pain.

To those worried about our furry friends’ safety amidst this virulent climate, the COVID-19 virus cannot be spread from person-to-pet, as long as both parties are safe and healthy!

Sources from ITS were glad that they could bring smiles to students’ faces and were proud of the event’s success.

“It was wonderful seeing everyone so happy!” ITS wrote to the Talon.

Indeed, there were beaming students cuddling dogs everywhere on the Great Lawn!

“I love that our school has this tradition, it’s so sweet!” junior Zoey Mortazavi said. “It really did bring a smile to everyone’s faces during COVID and before finals week.”