College students often feel lonely and homesick, especially during their first year away from home. One way to combat this loneliness is to bring a pet to college. Pets can provide companionship, reduce stress, and encourage students to get outside and exercise. They can help ease the transition to college life, provide emotional support, and improve physical and mental health.
However, not all colleges allow pets in dorms. Some colleges have strict no-pet policies, while others allow pets with certain restrictions. If you’re considering bringing a pet to college, it’s important to research the pet policies of the colleges you’re interested in.
According to a recent study by the American Pet Products Association (APPA), 38% of college students own a pet. Of those students, 22% have a dog, 16% have a cat, and 11% have a fish. The most popular type of pet among college students is a dog, followed by cats and fish.
There are many benefits to having a pet in college.
- Pets can provide companionship and reduce stress. A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that students who had pets had lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
- Pets can encourage students to get outside and exercise. A study by the University of Michigan found that students who had dogs were more likely to get regular exercise.
- Pets can help ease the transition to college life. A study by the University of Pennsylvania found that students who had pets were more likely to make friends and adjust to college life.
However, there are also some challenges to having a pet in college.
- Pets can be expensive. The cost of food, vet care, and other supplies can add up quickly.
- Pets can be disruptive. A dog that barks or a cat that scratches furniture can be a nuisance to roommates and neighbors.
- Pets can be a time commitment. Walking a dog, cleaning a litter box, and taking a pet to the vet all take time.
If you’re considering bringing a pet to college, it’s important to weigh the benefits and challenges carefully. If you decide that a pet is right for you, be sure to do your research and choose a college that allows pets in dorms.
The following colleges and universities allow pets in dorms with certain restrictions:
| College | Pet Policy | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Amherst College | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be well-behaved and not disruptive. |
| Brown University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be at least six months old and must be registered with the university. |
| Columbia University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Cornell University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate and the Resident Advisor (RA). | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Dartmouth College | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Duke University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Emory University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Georgetown University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Harvard University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
| Johns Hopkins University | Pets are allowed in dorms with the permission of the roommate. | Pets must be registered with the university and must be up-to-date on vaccinations. |
If you’re planning on bringing a pet to college, here are a few tips to help make the transition smoother:
- Choose a pet that is well-suited for dorm life. A small dog or cat is a good choice for a college dorm.
- Make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations. This is important for the health of your pet and the safety of other animals on campus.
- Get your pet registered with the university. This will ensure that your pet is covered by the university’s pet policy.
- Find a roommate who is willing to share the responsibility of caring for your pet. This will help to ensure that your pet is well-cared for while you’re in class or studying.
- Be prepared to pay for the cost of pet care. This includes the cost of food, vet care, and other supplies.
Having a pet in college can be a great way to reduce