Pets Allowed: A Michigan College is Testing Pet-Friendly Dorms

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Imagine a college where dorm life comes with a special perk. Pet-friendly dorms that allows dogs, cats, and other pets. This dream has become a reality for a university in Michigan. This initiative places them among the first universities in Michigan to do so, as stated in a press release. As part of a new pilot program, students residing on the second floor of Cramer Hall can bring along cats, dogs, and other pets, beginning this academic year.

Lisa Ortiz, the Director of Housing and Residential Life, has highlighted the potential benefits of having pets for students, including managing anxiety, depression, and homesickness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), studies have indicated a connection between the bond people share with their pets and various health advantages. These advantages include lowered blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, as well as decreased feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and symptoms of PTSD.

Pet-friendly dorms already at full capacity

The university has seen strong interest from students, and the designated floor in Cramer Hall is already at full capacity with around 30 expected pets. Students who want to bring pets will pay a $250 fee and need to follow rules for pet care and cleanliness. They also need a six-month prior relationship with the pet and provide veterinary records showing the pet is spayed/neutered and vaccinated.

Though only a few colleges and universities allow pets on campus, all schools must legally accommodate students with service or emotional support animals, as per the National Service Animal Registry (NSAR). Some colleges even allow aquariums in dorm rooms and occasionally collaborate with local organizations to bring therapy dogs to campus during stressful times like final exams.

Endless possibilities

If successful, the program might expand in the future, possibly including a dog park. As Ferris State University gears up for the fall semester starting on August 28th, with students returning on August 25th, the idea of a pet-friendly campus brings a new sense of companionship and well-being.

College Dorm Room Pets

Kayla MorganWriter

Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it. She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel. A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community. She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.