For many students, the sound of light tapping of claws and soft purring has become a regular occurrence on and off campus. Students are bringing their pets to college, whether it is for companionship or mental well-being.
Students living on campus can request a mental support animal through the “Disability/Medical Accommodation Inquiry Form,” which can be found on the Housing and Residential Communities section of UA’s main website.
“If it’s a well trained animal that has a significant purpose, then I feel like that is very different than having a pet just for fun,” said Natalie Hobin, a junior majoring in aerospace engineering.
Hobin has a five year-old cat named Kennedy that she adopted through Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter this past fall semester.
“She makes me so happy. It feels nice to have a companion,” Hobin said. “Some of it depends on you, but you also depend on them for emotional support.”
On top of college expenses and financial independence, having a pet also promotes students to be more responsible with budgeting and time management.
“It definitely required me to budget more. Instead of spending $6 on coffee, maybe I should save that and spend it towards her dog food,” said Satarah Ward, a junior criminology and criminal justice major. “I have to pay that pet fee as well in my apartment. That has also made me feel more responsible.”
Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter is always looking for volunteers for a variety of opportunities, such as a playgroup volunteer or photographer. These roles help the shelter due to their high demand, and they are always almost at capacity.
If students are unable to afford having a pet, or do not have the time, an alternative is the “Happy Hour” program that the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter offers. Students can sign up for a time that works for them and take a dog out for a walk around local spots in Tuscaloosa, but they are not allowed to bring them on campus.
“We actually did an overnight stay with one in February,” Hobin said. “They’re always so nice. We have had great luck with every dog we have taken over there.”
Peyton Drake, a junior majoring in electrical engineering, has volunteered with the Metro Shelter and most recently started fostering animals this past fall semester. She also takes care of her primary cat, Houdini.
During breaks, students face the struggle of bringing their pets home for the summer, which can be difficult for out of state students. Drake said that fostering is convenient because you can schedule a return appointment during breaks and bring the animal back to the shelter.
Students who have pets at college are taking steps towards adulthood and responsibility. If having a pet is not a possibility due to cost and time commitment, the “Happy Hour” program and fostering are unique opportunities that allow students to still interact with animals.
“I just love fostering, and I think that everybody should do it,” Drake said. “I don’t have that much time, but it’s more than they’re getting in the shelter. If I can take them on two walks a day. Play with them. It’s not only helping me, it’s helping them.”
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