While transitioning into the traditional college experience, it is a difficult process to depart from those who contributed to the nurture, love and memories that helped raise us. These positive relationships created at home would not be complete without our pets. At Colorado Mesa University (CMU), service animals are permitted to be in areas of public access on campus according to the Educational Access Services. Therapy and emotional support animals are not allowed in campus buildings other than the residence halls if the owner is a resident. 

If these circumstances do not apply to students, a difficult sendoff with their pets must take place. Tears, goodbye snuggles and final selfies are snapped, then it is time to say goodbye to the animals that may know us better than any person. 

For most students, these furry and scaly friends are more like family. The main difference being our pets cannot easily be called to mend the hardships that come along with distance. Therefore, the well-being of your pets is one of the hardest aspects of moving away from home as a freshman in college. While it is difficult to move away from your pets, it is even harder for your pets to deal with your absence. It is important for your family back home to monitor your pets’ behavior while you are away at college. 

If your pets act out from signs of separation anxiety, there are many approaches that can be used to improve their behavior and increase their quality of life. Changes in demeanor with any animal may be signs of the effect your absence has on your animals. Separation anxiety forms differently with each animal. Cats, for instance, do not display their emotions as freely as dogs when they are upset. It is important that your pets get enough exercise and are kept busy with new things to smell and discover. If your pets continue to struggle with your absence, a veterinarian can examine your pets’ behavior and provide mood altering drugs if need be. 

There are many routes to take that will ease the personal difficulties that come along with missing your pets: video calling them, getting updates from your family and focusing on your responsibilities at college, to name a few. 

During the first few weeks away from your pets, missing them can be overwhelming and occur on the daily. Longing for our best friends manages to get easier as a new version of everyday life takes shape. 

After coming home to visit my family for the first time since moving to Grand Junction, I was ambushed with the built-up love my dogs poured out for me through their uncontrollable tail wags and wet kisses. It was a positive experience to see my pets again. 

For other animals, it takes longer to warm up to their people again. Despite the different time frames of re-familiarization, the mutual appreciation and love we share with our pets is never lost. 

After experiencing moments of self-realization at college, your pets will continue to support and love you without any judgement.