Just about every college has the policy of disapproving of students keeping pets This is so for a number of reasons. Pets are usually considered to be smelly, noisy, and capable of biting, or scratching. Another major concern is that some students may be allergic. Also, there is the possibility that once the novelty of having the pet has worn off, and the students get busy with their academic (and social) activities, they may neglect or abandon their pets. This would not be beneficial for other students, and certainly neither would it be beneficial for the pet.
There is a very positive development occurring. Many authorities are starting to realize that having pets can be very beneficial. For one thing, 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 university students. It can help them cope with the stress of exams when that time comes around. Pets can also help lessen the initial feeling of homesickness at the start of term.
The Biggest Pet Friendly Colleges and Universities
The closest to being pet friendly colleges and universities as far as most are concerned, is to allow fish or small reptiles. That seems "safe" enough, doesn't it? Naturally, guide dogs and other service animals are allowed. However, in recent years, many more colleges and universities are permitting certain animals on a trial basis. This is good news for college bound students who would prefer to head off 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 animals innoculations are all up to date, and that the animal be registered with the campus housing office. Every resident on the floor has to approve the cat before it can stay there "" to avoid issues with allergies, for example.
Eckered College has special 'pet dorms' where cats and dogs are allowed, although they have to weigh less than 40 pounds, and again, all vaccinations have to 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 have had a pet friendly policy since 1971, although they operate a voting system and require that at least 75% of the residents in a dorm vote in favor of allowing pets before the dorm becomes a 'pet dorm'.
CALTEC will allow cats in their dorms, as will the State University of New Your. 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 is considering the possibility each year, so when you apply be sure to ask about whether pets are allowed at the university. You may be delighted to discover that you can take your pet with you when the term starts.