Bringing your furry friend to college may seem like a great idea, but before you pack up their food and bed, you need to find out if your dorm allows pets. While some colleges and universities do allow pets in student housing, the rules and restrictions vary widely.

Do College Dorms Allow Pets?

Pet-Friendly Colleges

A growing number of colleges and universities are becoming more pet-friendly, recognizing the benefits that pets can have for students' mental and emotional health. Some of the most pet-friendly schools include:

  • Bard College in New York
  • Bennington College in Vermont
  • Brown University in Rhode Island
  • Colby College in Maine
  • Dartmouth College in New Hampshire
  • Evergreen State College in Washington
  • Hamilton College in New York
  • Oberlin College in Ohio
  • Pomona College in California
  • Sarah Lawrence College in New York

Rules and Regulations

If your school does allow pets, there are likely to be a number of rules and regulations that you'll need to follow. These may include:

  • A limit on the number of pets you can have
  • A list of approved pet species
  • A requirement to have your pet vaccinated and licensed
  • A requirement to keep your pet on a leash when outside
  • A requirement to clean up after your pet
  • A fee for bringing a pet

Considerations

Before you decide whether or not to bring your pet to college, there are a few things you should consider:

  • Your living situation. Do you have a single room or a shared room? Will your pet be able to adjust to living in a small space with other people?
  • Your pet's personality. Is your pet social and friendly, or shy and anxious? Will they be able to handle the noise and activity of a college dorm?
  • Your time commitment. Pets require a lot of time and attention. Will you be able to take your pet for walks, feed them, and clean up after them, even during busy school weeks?
  • Your financial situation. Pets can be expensive. Will you be able to afford pet food, vet care, and other expenses?

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to bring your pet to college is a personal one. If you're not sure if it's the right decision for you, talk to your veterinarian, your family, and your friends for advice.