Here’s good news for all pet-loving college-bound students: Pet-friendly colleges and universities are on the rise. Currently, there are still many student accommodations that do not allow pets, but don’t despair. If you simply cannot bear the thought of leaving your beloved pet at home for months while in college, then you should be able to find a university or college that is pet friendly. They are out there.
Almost all colleges have a policy of disapproving of students keeping pets. This is so for several reasons. Pets are generally considered smelly, noisy, and capable of biting or scratching. Another big concern is that some students may be allergic. Also, there is the possibility 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 would not be beneficial to other students and it certainly would not 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 thing, they are a great stress reliever. It also appears that pet owners tend to be happier and more relaxed than those without pets. Having pets around can be very beneficial for college students. You 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 beginning 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? Of course, guide dogs and other service animals are allowed. However, in recent years, many more colleges and universities are allowing certain animals on trial. This is good news for college bound 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 animal inoculations to be up to date and the animal to be registered with the campus housing office. Each resident in the flat has to approve the cat before it can stay there “” to avoid allergy problems, for example.
Eckered College has special ‘pet dormitories’ where cats and dogs are allowed, although they have to 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 they operate a voting system and require that at least 75% of residents in a dormitory vote to allow pets before the dormitory becomes a “dormitory for pets”.
CALTEC will allow cats in their dormitories, 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 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 like to know that you can take your pet with you when the trimester starts.