Colleges Welcome Pets in Dorms to Reduce Students’ Stress and Anxiety
Colleges and universities around the country are now allowing pets in campus residences, a move that has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and homesickness among students. This growing trend is not only beneficial for the students but also for the colleges, as it helps to increase student engagement and build connections among students.
The Benefits of Pets in Dorms
For students, having pets in their dorms can be a great source of comfort and companionship. Sophie Nocera, a senior at Eckerd College, said that her Border collie, Zuko, has helped her meet other people on campus and has also been a source of emotional support when she struggled with a decision to change her major. "I remember coming back to my dorm and just melting to the floor, and Zuko was right there. And I remember thinking, whatever happens tomorrow, I’m going to wake up, and I’m going to take him to the dog park. And, we’re going to go play fetch regardless of what my major is," said Nocera.
Pet-Friendly Campus Policies
Not all colleges and universities allow pets in their dorms, and those that do often have strict policies and restrictions in place. For example, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) only allows cats, in limited numbers and in preapproved spaces. At Eckerd College, students can bring their family pets to live with them on campus after their first semester, but the pets must have been part of the students’ home life at least six months before coming to campus and must not be venomous or aggressive. The University of Northern Colorado allows dogs and cats in three of its residence halls, but the animals must be at least 6 months old and no more than 40 pounds.
Types of Pets Allowed
The types of pets allowed in dorms vary from college to college. Some colleges, like Eckerd, allow a wide range of pets, including rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, birds, guinea pigs, bearded dragons, geckos, turtles, snakes, frogs, fish, and even a tarantula. Other colleges, like MIT, only allow cats. The University of Northern Colorado allows dogs and cats, but only in limited numbers and in specific residence halls.
Pet Fees and Restrictions
Colleges that allow pets in their dorms often charge a pet fee, which can range from $50 to $220 per year, depending on the type of pet and the college. Some colleges also require students to have liability insurance and roommate agreements. Pets are required to be restrained when in public, and most colleges require students to ensure their pets are healthy and vaccinated.
The Impact of Pets on College Life
Having pets in dorms can have a significant impact on college life. For students, it can provide a sense of comfort and companionship, and can also help to reduce stress and anxiety. For colleges, it can help to increase student engagement and build connections among students. At Washington & Jefferson College, a first-year student who was struggling to make connections was able to turn her college experience around after getting a puppy. "I think it’s absolutely changed her college trajectory and her connection with others on campus," said Eva Chatterjee-Sutton, vice president of student life.
Residence Halls Adapt to Support Pet Owners
Residence halls that allow pets must consider a range of factors, including safety concerns, noise complaints, and how to avoid agitating animals during fire alarm tests. Some colleges charge a pet fee, which varies by school, type of pet, and is often included in housing expenses. Others require students to have liability insurance and roommate agreements. Pets are required to be restrained when in public, and most colleges require students to ensure their pets are healthy and vaccinated.
Conclusion
Allowing pets in dorms is a growing trend in colleges and universities, and it has been shown to have a positive impact on students’ mental health and well-being. While there are some restrictions and considerations that must be taken into account, many colleges are finding that the benefits of allowing pets in dorms far outweigh the drawbacks. As Sophie Nocera, a senior at Eckerd College, said, "Having pets obviously isn’t for everyone, and that is totally OK. But for the people that it is a good fit for, it is so worth it."
FAQs
Q: What types of pets are allowed in dorms?
A: The types of pets allowed in dorms vary from college to college, but can include dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, birds, guinea pigs, bearded dragons, geckos, turtles, snakes, frogs, fish, and even tarantulas.
Q: Are there any restrictions on pets in dorms?
A: Yes, there are restrictions on pets in dorms, including age and weight limits, breed restrictions, and requirements for vaccination and liability insurance.
Q: Do colleges charge a pet fee?
A: Yes, some colleges charge a pet fee, which can range from $50 to $220 per year, depending on the type of pet and the college.
Q: How do colleges support pet owners in residence halls?
A: Colleges that allow pets in their dorms often provide support and resources for pet owners, including pet-friendly housing options, pet supply stations, and pet-sitting services.
Q: Can pets attend graduation ceremonies?
A: Yes, some colleges allow pets to attend graduation ceremonies, and even provide special pet-friendly graduation ceremonies.
