Colleges Now Allowing Pets

Posted by Mia Carter Aug 23, 2008

As time progresses, it seems that an increasing number of researchers and scientists are learning about the benefits of pet ownership. Dog and cat owners tend to have lower blood pressure, they have a lesser risk of obesity and heart attack, and psychologically, pet owners tend to be less prone to mental illness and happier and more well-adjusted overall. Dog and cat owners, when looked at as a whole, are also more responsible, as they must care and consider the needs of another creature, and thereby moving away from an egocentric attitude.

Now, it seems, a handful of colleges and universities are recognizing the benefits of pet ownership, as several schools are now allowing students to bring along their cats and dogs. Traditionally, the only type of dorm room pet that's been permitted is a fish, and in some cases, small amphibians and reptiles that reside inside a glass tank. But recently, there's been a move toward allowing pets on campus.

Among the pet-friendly universities is Boston's Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which has started allowing student residents to bring along their pet cat in certain animal-friendly dorm buildings.

Another animal-friendly school is Eckerd College, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Pets under 40 pounds are permitted in certain pet-friendly dorms. This fall, the college will welcome cats, dogs, ferrets, rabbits and even ducks in its dorms.

Also on the list of pet-friendly schools is California Institute of Technology (CalTech), which allows cats and animals that reside in cages or tanks under 20 gallons. There is a $200 pet deposit associated with keeping at cat at CalTech.

Stephens College students in Missouri can not only take along cats and dogs under 40 pounds, but they can also take along their horse!