WORCESTER, Mass. - Some members of the Tufts PAWS for People volunteer organization spent Saturday morning at the Worcester Public Library, helping people relieve some of the stress that may have been caused during the holidays.

Folks were greeted by Maui, a 6-year-old Australian Shepherd, as well as 7-year-old Newfoundland, Sawdust.

"Whenever people see the dog they just automatically kind of relax," said Tufts PAWS for People member Denise Baker. "They'll sit down and some people may stay here in the library for the entire hour and a half, while other people will come in for quick visit and it just really just brings a lot of joy and stress relief for people."

Tufts PAWS for People is a community partner of the national program Pet Partners which works to improve human health and wellbeing through therapy animals, most of which are dogs.

Spectrum News spoke to a local man who specifically visited the Worcester library for a chance to bond with the animals.

"Around the holidays, it's definitely easier for some people than others," said Dudley resident Michael Poirier. "Long story short, it hasn't been particularly well, so this is by far the highlight of my week so far."

Tufts PAWS for People member Christine Palmer said there's been a great increase over the years in the amount of people requesting therapeutic services.

She said it's important they host events like these often to improve the mental health of the community.

"Especially post-COVID," said Tufts PAWS for People Member Christine Palmer. "We have less teams and more need than ever. So we're frequently getting contacted by organizations that want the dogs to visit. We visit all kinds of settings, hospitals, schools, nursing homes."

Palmer said Tufts PAWS for People is always looking for new volunteer pet owners, and people can learn more about how to become a member on their website.