Finding Pet-Friendly Colleges that not only provide a top-notch education but also welcome your furry, feathered, or scaled companions is a huge relief for pet lovers. As the bond between humans and animals continues to grow, more colleges around the world are acknowledging the positive impact pets can have on student well-being, leading to a rise in campuses that cater to both students and their beloved animals. Many institutions now offer pet-friendly policies and accommodations, making it easier for students to bring their pets along during their college years.
We take a look at the top 20 pet-friendly colleges globally, where students and their pets can thrive together.
Table of Contents
- Why Keep a Pet in College?
- Pros and Cons of Keeping a Pet in College
- Pets to Keep in College
- Top 20 Pet-Friendly Colleges in the World
- FAQs – Colleges That Allow Pets
- Conclusion
Why Keep a Pet in College?
Owning a pet while in college has several benefits. Here are some of the top reasons students bring their pets to campus:
- Companionship: Pets are a great source of companionship, helping students feel less lonely and homesick.
- Stress Relief: College life can be overwhelming. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are known to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
- Emotional Support: Pets offer unconditional love and acceptance, which can be a great boost to emotional well-being.
- Physical Activity: Owning a pet, especially a dog, encourages physical activity, whether it’s going for walks or playing outside.
- Routine and Responsibility: Having a pet can teach valuable life lessons, including responsibility, time management, and caregiving.
However, having a pet in college is a big commitment, requiring time, attention, and financial resources.
Pros and Cons of Keeping a Pet in College
Pros:
- Social Connections: Pets can act as icebreakers, helping students meet others with similar interests.
- Physical Health: Owning a pet encourages physical exercise and outdoor activity.
- Emotional Benefits: Pets provide emotional support, reduce stress, and can improve mental health.
Cons:
- Costs: Pets can be expensive. You’ll need to budget for food, vet bills, and other pet-related expenses.
- Time Commitment: College life is busy, and balancing classes, social activities, and pet care can be challenging.
- Limited Housing Options: Not all dorms or apartments allow pets, limiting your accommodation choices.
- Potential Property Damage: Pets can damage living spaces, leading to additional costs for repairs.
See: Unity Classical Charter School: What to Know Before Applying
Pets to Keep in College
Before deciding on a pet, consider factors such as college pet policies, your available time, and living space. Here are some common college-friendly pets:
- Fish: Low-maintenance and ideal for small spaces.
- Cats: Independent, low-maintenance, and great for stress relief.
- Dogs: Provide companionship but require more time and attention. Consider smaller breeds or low-energy dogs if you have a busy schedule.
- Birds: Parakeets or cockatiels are social, relatively low-maintenance, and great for small living spaces.
See: Perspectives Charter School: All You Need to Know
Top 20 Pet-Friendly Colleges in the World
University of California, Davis – USA
UC Davis is known for its veterinary school and pet-friendly environment, offering on-campus pet housing and green spaces.
Visit UC Davis
Eckerd College – USA
Offers designated pet-friendly dorms and an off-leash dog park. The campus even has a “Pet Council” to address pet owners’ concerns.
Visit Eckerd College
Delaware Valley University – USA
Allows various pets, including rodents and amphibians. Students can keep two animals of the same species in their rooms.
Visit Delaware Valley University
Stephens College – USA
Pet-friendly housing and facilities like a grooming salon and pet daycare make this college a pet owner’s dream.
Visit Stephens College
Lees-McRae College – USA
Pets are treated like family, with very few restrictions. Pets are even allowed in some classrooms!
Visit Lees-McRae College
University of British Columbia – Canada
Offers pet-friendly housing and off-leash areas for dogs. The campus is close to parks and trails for outdoor activities.
Visit UBC
State University of New York at Canton – USA
SUNY Canton has pet-friendly dorms, an exercise area, and a walking trail for pets.
Visit SUNY Canton
Stetson University – USA
Allows cats, dogs, and small animals in designated pet-friendly housing. They also provide resources for pet care.
Visit Stetson University
University of Lincoln – UK
Offers pet-friendly housing, located near parks and green spaces, making it easy to spend quality time outdoors with pets.
Visit University of Lincoln
University of Denver – USA
Pet-friendly residence halls and nearby off-leash parks make this university a great place for students with pets.
Visit University of Denver
Principia College – USA
Provides pet-friendly housing and outdoor spaces for students’ pets to play and exercise.
Visit Principia College
University of Guelph – Canada
Known for its animal-friendly campus, offering pet-friendly dorms and various pet-related services.
Visit University of Guelph
University of North Carolina at Asheville – USA
Offers pet-friendly dorms, on-campus pet play areas, and a nearby dog park.
Visit UNC Asheville
Texas Tech University – USA
Texas Tech has a dog park, pet-friendly events, and designated pet-friendly housing.
Visit Texas Tech
Dalhousie University – Canada
Offers pet-friendly housing and off-leash areas, making it easy for students to enjoy outdoor activities with their pets.
Visit Dalhousie University
University of Montana – USA
Provides pet-friendly housing and organizes pet-related events to foster a healthy pet-owner relationship.
Visit University of Montana
Case Western Reserve University – USA
Allows small caged animals in pet-friendly dorms. Dogs are permitted in fraternity and sorority houses.
Visit Case Western Reserve
Reed College – USA
Dogs are permitted in off-leash areas. The campus prioritizes wildlife protection.
Visit Reed College
High Point University – USA
Allows fish, domesticated cats, and non-aggressive dogs under 30 pounds.
Visit High Point University
Johnson & Wales University – USA
The pet program allows students to keep dogs, cats, rabbits, and aquatic pets in designated residence halls.
Visit Johnson & Wales
FAQs – Colleges That Allow Pets
What types of pets are allowed in pet-friendly colleges?
While policies vary, most pet-friendly colleges allow dogs, cats, and small caged animals. Some schools have breed or size restrictions.
Do pet-friendly colleges offer services for pets?
Yes! Many colleges provide pet amenities like grooming services, daycare centers, exercise areas, and even on-campus veterinary clinics.
Can pets attend classes?
Most colleges don’t allow pets in academic buildings, but service and therapy animals may be permitted with proper documentation.
Conclusion
Bringing a pet to college can significantly enhance your college experience, but it requires careful planning. Before making the decision, review your college’s pet policies, evaluate your lifestyle, and ensure you can meet your pet’s needs. With the right environment, your pet can be a cherished companion throughout your college years.
