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college students should think twice before taking their favorite pet along to college, says Nancy Peterson, issues specialist for the Humane Society of the United States. " 

having a pet at college

  is a very serious commitment," she says. "The lifestyle of a college student is filled with new adventures, hours of studying, and sporadic schedules. Balancing pet ownership with that isn't easy."

Not to mention the fact that most campus housing prohibits pets, and finding pet-friendly rental property off campus is often difficult. But just like other adjustments you face at the start of your college career, there are strategies to help you cope with a "petless" life.

• Make friends -- the furless kind. When Erin Clark, a senior majoring in family and consumer science education at Illinois State University (Normal, IL), left home to pursue higher education, she tearfully bid adieu to her two cats, Mudge and Libby. Although her first week away was overwhelming, making new friends helped her deal with pet nostalgia and eased other anxieties as well. "Many wonderful friends helped me through the initial transition," she says. "Almost all my floormates had left behind pets, so talking about our animals made it easier for all of us."



• Volunteer at a local animal shelter. "People who want a fur fix can volunteer at a shelter," Peterson says. "Volunteers are needed to walk, train, groom, and socialize pets." Spending an hour a week with shelter animals helps make them more adoptable and gives you a chance to learn about pet care.



• Bring photos and keep in touch. Having snapshots of family, including pets, can help alleviate loneliness. And, "don't be afraid to call home if you get homesick," Erin adds. "Your family can be a great resource, and they may even have your beloved babies meow or bark for you over the phone!"



• Keep things in perspective. Remember, you're not going to live without Fido or Tiger for the rest of your life. Although owning a pet in college isn't usually a great idea, there will come a time when sharing your life with an animal can result in a wonderful, long-term relationship.











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