With so much activity underway in the days leading up to your child’s first year of college, it’s easy to inadvertently overlook one very important family member: the family pet.
Whether it’s the much-loved dog that faithfully waited by the front door after school or the precious cat that curled up next to your child for comfort through the years, or some other type of beloved pet that made your family feel complete, pets and the children that grew up alongside them often form very special bonds. As your child heads to campus for the first time, it’s worth giving thought to how this change may affect your child, the pet, and your entire family.
Here are five pet considerations:
1. Prepare for the Emotional Adjustment
Once your child is settled in on campus, you and they won’t be the only ones experiencing separation anxiety. Pets often notice when a beloved family member suddenly disappears from their daily routine. With someone unexpectedly missing from the household, pets may become quieter, more clingy, or even show changes in eating or sleeping habits. At my home, I vividly recall our dog sitting outside our son’s bedroom for weeks following his departure, and thereafter, appearing to keep a careful watch near our front door, awaiting our son’s return.
To help with the upcoming need for adjustment, encourage your child to say a proper goodbye rather than rushing (or slipping) out the door as you head to drop-off day. Taking fun photos together, enjoying one final walk or game of fetch, and/or spending quiet quality time leading up to departure can make the transition easier for everyone.
2. Think Carefully About Bringing Pets to Campus
Some families may consider bringing one or more pets along for comfort on drop-off day. Be sure to check campus policies, as most residence halls may prohibit pets (except for service or approved emotional support animals, as applicable).
Also, consider whether a busy, unfamiliar environment with a pet underfoot could create more stress than comfort. Plus, in addition to mom and/or dad, the family pet represents one more goodbye for your child to have to face.
And outside of drop-off day, it can also be tempting to consider including your pet in school events like family weekend, especially if your student misses them. Before making any plans to bring your four-legged friend along, carefully review campus and event policies and consider your pet’s temperament, mode of travel, weather, and the length of the visit. You’ll also need to consider the availability and cost of pet-friendly lodging.
In many cases, it may be more comfortable for your pet to stay at home, where they feel secure with a trusted caregiver they know.
3. Find Alternative Ways to Bring Comfort from Home
When homesickness sets in, it can be natural for students to greatly miss the companionship of their pet(s). Think in advance about other ways to help your child recreate a sense of comfort while away. A favorite blanket, a special pillow, or even a stuffed animal can provide a familiar and soothing presence in a new environment.
Some students also find comfort in bringing items that carry the scent of home or a small keepsake from their room. These simple touches can help ease the transition.
4. Make Sure the Family Pet’s Needs Are Still Covered
If your soon-to-be college student was responsible for feeding, walking, grooming, and/or cleaning up after the family pet, those responsibilities will need to be re-assigned in advance of their departure.
Before move-in day, create a new plan for who will handle daily care and get full buy-in from all involved. If necessary, consider hiring a dog walker or other form of pet support during busy periods. Planning helps maintain consistency, which can help pets adjust to the new normal.
5. Stay Connected in Creative Ways
Technology can help maintain the special bond between your child and their pet. Share photos and short videos of their pet, schedule video calls where the pet can hear familiar voices, and/or send updates about funny pet moments as they arise.
These small gestures can provide comfort during the first few months away and remind your student that their furry friend is doing well and will be there waiting when the first school break rolls around.
The Bottom Line
Preparing for college isn’t just about academics, finances, and dorm shopping and packing lists. It’s also about recognizing the emotional changes that come with leaving home, including those experienced by beloved pets.
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