More universities are creating pet-friendly dorms to help their students combat stress and anxiety. Schools like Eckerd College in Florida and the University of Northern Colorado are letting students bring dogs, cats, and other pets to campus—even those not registered as emotional support or service animals. Students say having a pet makes a big difference during stressful times, whether it’s cuddling after a long day or by helping them meet new people on campus. There’s differing logistics, of course; schools like MIT allow only cats in “preapproved spaces” while the University of Northern Colorado has over a dozen residence halls on campus that allow both dogs and cats. YPulse data shows that 68% of college students agree they constantly feel stressed, but expanding these limitations implies having a pet on campus may be a simple but meaningful way to support students’ mental health. (AP News)
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