Here’s some good news for all you pet-loving college-bound students out there: pet-friendly colleges and universities are on the rise. Today there are still plenty of student accommodations that don’t allow pets, but don’t despair. If you just can’t bear the thought of leaving your beloved pet at home for months while you’re away at college, then you should be able to find a pet-friendly university or college. They are out there.
Almost all universities have a policy of disapproving of students having pets. This is so for several reasons. Pets are generally considered to be smelly, noisy, and capable of biting or scratching. Another major concern is that some students may be allergic. In addition, there is a chance that once the novelty of having the pet has worn off and students are busy with their academic (and social) activities, they may neglect or abandon their pets. This wouldn’t be beneficial to other students, and it certainly wouldn’t be beneficial to the pet either.
A very positive development is taking place. Many authorities are beginning to realize that having pets can be very beneficial. For one, they are a great stress reliever. It also appears that pet owners tend to be happier and more relaxed than non-pet owners. Keeping pets around can be very beneficial for college students. It can help them cope with the stress of exams when that time comes. Pets can also help lessen the initial feeling of homesickness at the start of the trimester.
Largest Pet-Friendly Colleges and Universities
The closest thing to being pet-friendly colleges and universities, as far as most are concerned, is allowing fish or small reptiles. That seems “safe” enough, doesn’t it? Guide dogs and other service animals are naturally allowed. However, in recent years many more colleges and universities are allowing certain animals on a trial basis. This is good news for college students who prefer to go to college with their pets.
Two major and well-known universities allow cats that have been spayed or neutered, namely MIT and UCLA. They also require that the animal’s vaccinations be up to date and that the animal be registered with the campus housing office. Each resident in the apartment must approve the cat before he can stay there “” to avoid allergy problems, for example.
Eckered College has special ‘pet dorms’ where cats and dogs are allowed, although they must be under 40 pounds and, again, all vaccinations must be up to date. Stephens College will allow cats, dogs, and rabbits in one of its hallways, but only on the first floor, so pet-friendly “spots” are limited.
Vassar College has had a pet-friendly policy since 1971, although it operates a voting system and requires that at least 75% of the residents in a dormitory vote to allow pets before the dorm can be converted to a “guest dorm.” pets”.
CALTEC will allow cats in its dorms, as will New Your State University. The University of Pennsylvania will allow hamsters, birds and rabbits.
As you can see, many prestigious colleges and universities will allow pets. An increasing number are considering the possibility each year, so when you apply, be sure to ask if pets are allowed at the university. You may be delighted to find that you can take your pet with you when your period starts.
