BLACKSBURG, Va. (WFXR) — Virginia Tech (VT) has a new employee. He loves cuddles and is sweet and affectionate with all-black fur and four legs. His name is Epcot.
Epcot is a Labrador with a background in Guiding Eyes from the Blind. He was raised by a couple in Baltimore and joins the college’s team of therapy dogs, Derick, Josie, and Wagner. He turns two on March 27. Epcot enjoys being in your lap and is a playful bundle of joy.
Virginia Tech School officials say each therapy dog serves the VT community in several many ways. Dogs help create more positive and inclusive spaces for students that help de-stigmatize mental health conversations. The school says studies show that petting a dog or other animals can decrease cortisol levels and lead to lower anxiety and stress.
