STUDENTS at Queen Margaret University have become the first in Scotland to have their own dedicated therapy pet.

Rocco, the labradoodle, has been appointed as a stress buster for people at the university after training to become an official Therapet.

The young dog's owner Kirsten Baird is general manager of the university's students' union and was already bringing her pet into work on a regular basis when she decided to put him through the training.

Now he is the first university-based Therapet in Scotland offering students the chance to unwind and relax.

Trained by Canine Concern Scotland Trust, therapy pets are used to help people cope in stressful conditions and are commonly used to visit hospitals, schools and care homes.

Kirsten said: “The students' union has run several Therapet sessions over the last few years which students really seemed to benefit from. Rocco came with me to work almost every day and the students all seemed to love him. So it made sense to train him as an official Therapet which would allow QMU students more regular access to organised sessions.”

“He is proving to be a huge hit with students, particularly during stressful periods around exams and assignments. Many students miss their own pets from home and often enjoy the opportunity to be with Rocco."

Canine Concern Scotland Trust firmly believes in the therapeutic value that dogs can offer people who may not have regular access to them.

And students at the university agree.

Maj Meah, a 4th year student studying a BA (Hons) Public Relations and Media, has attended several Therapet sessions at the students’ union.

He said: “Everyone loves Rocco and the students now associate him with their visits to the union. He’s a fun dog to have around and is proving to be a great stress-buster and companion for many students."

Caitlin Lewis-Ogden, a BA (Hons) Costume Design and Construction student said: “I am not able to care for a dog full time at this point, but having the opportunity to spend time with Rocco on occasion has been really lovely.”