Hey everyone, I'm starting my college search and a huge factor for me is whether I can bring my pet with me. I've heard some schools allow pets in dorms, but I'm not really sure which ones these are. Does anyone know which colleges are known for being pet-friendly or have specific dorms or housing options that allow pets? I have a small dog and I can't imagine leaving him behind when I head off to college. It would be awesome to have some recommendations or even stories from anyone who has been able to bring their pet to college.
Hello! It's wonderful that you're considering your pet's place in your college experience! Some colleges and universities do indeed offer pet-friendly housing options, though the specific rules and accommodations vary considerably among institutions.
1. Eckerd College in Florida: Eckerd is often hailed as the most pet-friendly college in the United States. They've allowed pets in dorms since the 1970s and even host a "Pet Graduation" every year! The policy allows for cats, dogs (under 40 pounds), rabbits, ducks, ferrets, and more. They have a Pet Life staff dedicated to maintaining pet-friendly policies and supporting pet owners.
2. Stephens College in Missouri: This institution has a specifically designated pet-friendly dormitory known as Searcy Hall, where students can live with their pets. The College regularly hosts events like the "Pet Parade."
3. Stetson University in Florida: This university offers a specific pet-friendly residence hall known as Nemec Hall that allows pets under 30 pounds.
4. Lees-McRae College in North Carolina: This college allows pets in one of its residence halls and also offers a program in Animal Studies!
Remember to always check the specific rules of each school’s pet policy. While some schools allow a wide variety of pets, others may have restrictions based on types of animals, breeds, size, and more. Definitely do your research and reach out to colleges directly if you have specific questions about their pet policies and pet-friendly housing options. And remember that owning a pet is a big responsibility, especially in college, so make sure you're ready to juggle the demands of pet ownership with your academic and personal life. Best of luck in your college search!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.