By: Kayla Olden
College life can sometimes be filled with exams, late-night study sessions, and finding your place in a new environment. While surrounded by many stressful situations, having a furry friend by your side might be the secret to keeping a sense of balance. Pets aren’t just cuddly cute companions, they can bring structure to your day, lower stress levels, and a lot of the time offer a sense of home away from home. No matter what kind of pet you think seems fit for you and your lifestyle, they can bring surprising benefits that many don't initially realize when considering an animal in college.
Stress Reduction
The overwhelming expectations of college life can take a toll sometimes on mental health, but the simple presence of a pet has been scientifically proven to help with that stress. Petting animals triggers the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the "feel-good" hormone, which can help bring you a sense of calmness. A survey at Ferris State University revealed that 90% of college pet owners feel their pets help reduce stress and anxiety, along with 78% finding their animals essential for unwinding after a long day. As a pet owner in college, I can guarantee that seeing my cat at the end of the day or having him there with me while doing work makes my life so much brighter.
Additional Exercise
Staying physically active is essential to maintaining both your mental and physical health, and owning a pet can be a great motivator to stay on your feet. Dogs especially can help with this, daily walks can not only keep your pet healthy but also encourage you to stay active. This kind of routine could provide you with a needed break from studying, allowing you a great reason to step away from your desk, clear your mind, and enjoy a bit of fresh air with your furry companion. Over time, these activities can become a refreshing habit, helping you maintain balance while staying on top of your academic life.
Companionship
College life can sometimes feel lonely, especially for students who are far from home. Having a pet can help ease feelings of homesickness or loneliness by bringing a sense of comfort and constant company. An animal is a consistent source of support, keeping you company during late-night study sessions and always being there to brighten up your day. Whether it’s the loyalty of a furry dog, the playful behavior of a cat, or the presence of a low-maintenance small pet, the bond you form with your animal companion can bring you assurance in company throughout your college journey.
Having an animal in college can bring great benefits for you. Beyond just having a companion, pets help reduce stress and anxiety, encourage consistent exercise, and offer a sense of comfort when college life feels overwhelming. Whether it's as simple as petting your cat after a long day or taking a break for a walk with your dog, pets can bring a much-needed balance to a busy college schedule. Owning an animal comes with some work, but the benefits that come with them, like feeling less stressed and constant company, are totally worth it. Coming from personal experience, getting a furry friend in college has been the best decision I’ve made while being here.
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