Archive · 7 Sep 2025
Colleges Embrace Pets in Dorms for Student Well-being
Some colleges are letting students have pets in their dorm rooms.
This helps students feel less stressed and lonely.
Schools like Eckerd College and the University of Northern Colorado have different rules.
For example, some schools allow dogs and cats, while others only allow cats.
The pets must meet certain requirements and students often have to pay a fee.
These pets help students make friends and feel better overall.
For some students, pets have even changed their college experience for the better!
Several US colleges are allowing pets, such as dogs and cats, in student dormitories.
Colleges believe pets help students reduce stress and build connections.
Eckerd College allows pets after the first semester if they have lived with the student for at least six months.
The University of Northern Colorado allows dogs and cats with specific weight and age restrictions.
Schools may charge pet fees, and there are considerations like safety and cleaning.
- Who
- Colleges and universities, like Eckerd College and the University of Northern Colorado, and their students.
- What
- Allowing pets in student dorms.
- When
- Growing trend in recent years.
- Where
- Various colleges and universities in the United States.
- Why
- To help ease student stress, anxiety, homesickness, improve engagement, and foster connections.
- Schools Allowing Pets
- MIT, Eckerd College, University of Northern Colorado, Stephens College, Washington & Jefferson College
- Eckerd College Pet Policy
- Pets allowed after first semester; must be part of student's home life for at least six months.
- University of Northern Colorado
- Allows dogs and cats; animals must be 6+ months old, under 40 lbs; one pet per student.
- Stephens College Pet Fee
- $220/year for dogs/cats; $50 for cage pets; free for fish
- Benefits
- Reduced stress, anxiety, homesickness; improved student engagement and connections.