Year after year, I hear about college students wanting to have pets on campus. The reasons vary– some students want the company, while others have parents who plan to get rid of the pet once the student moves out. Whatever the reason, there is a consistent desire to have the companionship of a furry friend while in college. I see an array of benefits to this, so I believe pets should be allowed at Grand Valley State University.

Numerous colleges and universities are now allowing students to have pets on campus, including Ferris State University, which has a pet-friendly residence hall. At GVSU, the current policy states, “No person shall bring any animal(s) onto University-owned or controlled property unless otherwise permitted.” In my opinion, there really isn’t a great reason to ban all pets. If the University is worried about the mess of pets, they could enact a cleaning fee for students registering their pet through Housing and Residence Life. It could also be worthwhile to install pet waste stations around campus. 

First and foremost, having a pet teaches responsibility. Many college students are learning to live on their own for the first time. Allowing and encouraging pets on campus can help students build routines and responsibility. With the need to make vet appointments, maintain regular grooming and more, I believe having pets on campus would help students foster a responsible mindset. 

There are also health benefits to having a pet. For example, if a student has a dog, they will be pushed to be more active in order to take their dog on walks. It’s easy to hole up in your dorm room, so having a reason to get out would be very beneficial. 

On top of that, it has been scientifically proven that animals are great stress relievers. College has been a huge stressor for me– something I feel is also true for many other students. I believe encouraging and allowing more pets on campus would have a major positive effect on students’ mental health. We allow service animals for those with emotional support needs, and I believe this policy should be extended to all students. 

I have also heard numerous stories of people sneaking pets into their dorms despite policy. If a student knows room checks are coming up, they simply take their pet elsewhere or hide it until checks are over. If this behavior is occurring without GVSU’s knowledge, it would be better for the University to be proactive by catering to pet owners’ needs. 

Having pets on campus could also help students socially. How often do people meet by asking to pet a dog? There could even be student organizations based on different pets. This would be a great opportunity for students to meet one another and their furry friends.