Puppies and Painting a huge success

BY LOREN JONES SM2 REPORTER

The USM Residence Hall Association hosted Puppies and Painting on Feb. 6 in Mississippi Hall. The event allowed students to come together, hang out, their creativity out and playing with a therapy dog. There was also a guest speaker there talking about the importance of having good mental health and where to go if you are struggling.

The therapy dog that came to Puppies and Painting was Major Payne, also known as Moo Moo around town. Although Moo Moo is not the therapy dog, most students still enjoy meeting and petting him.

“We were so happy to be invited tonight to come to share what we do, love on the students. That’s what we’re all about, loving everyone and giving love,” said Keri Ray Galey, Moo Moo’s owner.

Moo Moo also enjoyed meeting new people and interacting with the students.

“He loves, loves, loves seeing friends and meeting new friends, and he’s just excited and that's the best part of getting to go anywhere really,” Galey said.

Galey likes how when they visit people and get to know them better, they open up to the two and share a little about themselves.

“We get to encounter other people, we get to visit them, get to them better. And sometimes when you talk to people for a little bit, they start sharing about themselves,” Galey said. “We learn about them and so we love that. And so, getting invited to help with this organization was wonderful and we look forward to coming back much more.”

Puppies and Painting are the first of many events hosted by the RHA for students to come together and interact with each other and meet new people. The next event will be a trivia night March 22nd from 6-8 p.m.

For more information on events hosted by the RHA follow them on Instagram @usmrha.