In recent years, many colleges and universities have adjusted their campus pet policies to meet the changing needs of students.
Having a pet in college was once a rarity, but pet-friendly campuses are now more common as colleges work to create a more supportive environment for their students.
That said, having a pet as a college student is a big commitment in terms of financial responsibility and time commitment. From explaining common pet policies to reviewing current trends on campuses, we break down the ins and outs of owning a pet as a college student to help you make the most informed decision for you and your pet!
General Pet Policies In College
Historically, colleges and universities maintained strict no-pet policies, due to concerns over allergies, maintenance, and potential disruptions to campus life. Outside of service animals, protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act, pets were generally not allowed on or around campuses.
The landscape started to change, though, as the conversation around mental health and well-being for students became more prominent. Studies have shown that pets can significantly reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and offer emotional support, which is particularly beneficial when faced with a demanding academic environment.
As awareness of the benefits grew, colleges began to reconsider their pet policies. The vast majority of changes to pet policies were focused on campus housing rules. Many schools went from banning pets in dorms to opening pet-specific dorms, wings, or rooms for students. While some colleges have breed and weight restrictions, most animals are now welcome on many campuses.
Finding Pet-Friendly Colleges
Understanding pet policies and identifying pet-friendly campuses can be an important decision point for prospective students during the college application and decision process. Some universities that have led the way on inclusive pet policies on campus are:
- Stephens College: Located in Missouri, Stephens College has allowed pets on campus for over a decade. It provides special facilities for doggy daycare and even organizes pet-friendly activities.
- Eckerd College: Located in Florida, Eckerd was one of the first to embrace a comprehensive pet policy. It accommodates a wide range of pets and encourages students to integrate them into campus life.
- SUNY Canton: Located in New York, this campus accommodates most small animals, offers a dedicated pet wing in some residence halls, and has specific floors for dogs and other pets.
- Stetson University: Located in Florida, Stetson permits a wide range of pets, from rabbits to guinea pigs, in its pet-friendly housing units.
- Lees-McRae College: Located in North Carolina, this college permits pets for students after their first two semesters and offers specific pet-friendly housing (with some breed and weight restrictions for dogs).
- Lyon College: Located in Arkansas, Lyon has policies that allow cats and dogs in specified housing areas, with certain restrictions on breeds.
- Pfeiffer University: Located in North Carolina, Pfeiffer also allows cats and dogs in specified housing areas, with certain restrictions on breeds and the need for prior approval.
These are just a few of many schools that recognize the positive impact pets can have on student well-being and community-building on campus. As such, they have made changes to their pet policies to support these values.
When conducting your search, make sure to review campus housing policies to see if they allow pets, and which species or breeds may be restricted.
Pets In A Dorm Vs. Apartment
While update campus policies are a huge benefit for current and incoming students, they only apply to students who live in on-campus housing. If you instead live in off-campus housing, there may be additional policies and fees to take into consideration.
Since off-campus housing isn’t governed by a single entity, policies can vary greatly. Here are a few examples of what you’ll likely encounter off-campus:
- No Pet Policies: Some apartment buildings have strict no pet policies, prohibiting any type of pets due to concerns about noise, damage, and allergies.
- ESA Allowances: These are buildings that allow animals legally designated as Emotional Support Animals for a monthly fee.
- Pet Friendly Policies: Other buildings are pet-friendly and welcome various types of pets. However, they often come with specific rules and regulations to ensure the building remains clean and peaceful.
Pet friendly buildings are becoming more and more common, but they still may have restrictions on breed, weight, and even the number of pets in a single unit. Additionally, many buildings require an initial refundable pet deposit – and sometimes monthly pet rent – to protect against any possible damages.
There are also interpersonal considerations if you have roommates. Even if the building allows pets, it’s important to consult with any roommates you may have in case they have any concerns about living with an animal.
Other Considerations
While housing type is an important factor in deciding whether or not to own a pet in college, there are some other items that play a role as well.
Time Commitment
College life often includes unpredictable schedules and spontaneous plans. Pets require significant time and attention, which can be challenging to balance with academic and social commitments.
Financial Cost
The cost of food, supplies, vet visits, and potential pet deposits for housing can add up, straining a student budget. For example, the average cost of owning a dog is around $1,400 per year while the average cost of owning a cat is around $1,200 per year.
Travel and Mobility
Pets can make travel difficult, whether it’s going home for the holidays or studying abroad. Since pets need consistent care, even a long day of classes and work can make it difficult to manage having a pet.
Distractions
Pets can sometimes be a distraction from studying and completing assignments. Pets are a responsibility, and they have to be balanced with the many other responsibilities that you’ll carry during the school year.
Allergies and Phobias
Roommates or visitors may have allergies to or fears of pets, causing potential conflicts or health issues. If you choose to own your own pet in college, just remember to be cognizant of who they spend time around.
Alternatives To Having Your Own Pet
If owning your own pet seems difficult for your situation, there are other ways to integrate animals into your day-to-day life as a college student.
With the growing recognition of the value of animals on student mental health, many universities have implemented programs that bring therapy animals to campus during high-stress times. Some universities have also begun partnering with humane societies to develop fostering programs for students. This allows students to foster pets temporarily on campus until the animals are adopted.
In addition to campus programs, services for pet-sitting and walking are also great opportunities to engage with animals, all while getting paid to do so! Services that connect students with pet-owners include Rover, Wag!, PetBacker, and Fetch! Pet Care. All are great options for spending time with animals in college.
The Takeaway
As college campuses evolve to better support the diverse needs of their students, many have begun to embrace more inclusive pet policies, recognizing the significant benefits of pet ownership. From alleviating stress and anxiety to providing companionship, pets can play a crucial role in enhancing student well-being.
While navigating the decision to own a pet in college involves considering housing policies, financial costs, time commitments, and potential roommate issues, many universities are making it more doable through pet-friendly dorms and programs. For those who find owning a pet challenging, alternatives like therapy animal programs, fostering, and pet-sitting services offer meaningful ways to engage with animals.
Overall, having a pet as a college student can be an enriching commitment. If this is something you’re considering, getting clear on why you want a pet and understanding the ins and outs of pet ownership will help you make an informed decision that could enhance your college experience for years to come!
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Allison’s passion lies in decoding the ways of the world to help put others on a path to success. She likes to ask big questions, and it’s her goal to find answers to share with you. A self-acknowledged transplant to the Pacific Northwest, Allison likes to write about finance, policy, fitness, and anything else that sparks her curiosity.
Editor: Colin Graves Reviewed by: Robert Farrington