Finding Pet-Friendly Colleges and Universities

Here’s some good news for all you pet-loving college students: Pet-friendly colleges and universities are on the rise. There are still plenty of student accommodations today 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 at a time while you’re in college, then you should be able to find a pet-friendly university or college. They are out there.

Almost all colleges 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. Additionally, there is a possibility that once the novelty of pet ownership has worn off and students are busy with their academic (and social) activities, they will neglect or abandon their pets. This would not be beneficial to other students, and certainly not to the pet.

A very positive development is taking place. Many authorities are beginning to realize that having pets can be very beneficial. On the one hand, they are a great stress reliever. It also appears that pet owners tend to be happier and more relaxed than non-pet owners. Having 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 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? 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 on the floor 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 shots must be up to date. Stephens College will allow cats, dogs and rabbits in one of its halls, but only on the first floor, so pet-friendly “places” 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 dorm vote to allow pets before the dorm becomes a “pet 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 on campus. You may be delighted to discover that you can take your pet with you when your period starts.