The Origin and Rise of Pet-Friendly Dormitories
Discover the history and growth of pet-friendly housing in colleges, focusing on Washington & Jefferson College's Pet House. Learn how this innovative initiative started and why it has become increasingly popular among students seeking to live with their beloved pets while pursuing their education.
The Origin and Rise of Pet-Friendly Dormitories
Having a furry companion can make life more joyful and reduce stress, especially during tough days. Yet, when students move to college, they often face the challenge of leaving their pets behind, which is upsetting for many, especially pet owners who rely on support animals. Thankfully, some institutions are now creating solutions. One notable example is the Pet House at Washington & Jefferson College, a residence allowing students to live with their pets, reflecting a growing trend of pet-inclusive housing options across campuses.
The concept of the Pet House was pioneered by animal advocate Tori Haring-Smith, elected college president in 2005. Inspired by her own experience with a kitten at Swarthmore College, she proposed the idea of a pet-friendly residence. Despite initial reservations about cleanliness and noise, she successfully persuaded college officials to explore the concept, including a visit to Eckerd College, where pet-friendly housing was already in operation. Results showed that the environment remained clean and peaceful, with ample outdoor space for pets to play.
The Pet House quickly gained popularity, with student residents increasing from 10 to 34 within a year. Its success contributed to Washington & Jefferson College earning the third spot on the "Top 10 Pet-Friendly Colleges" list in 2010, highlighting the growing acceptance of pets in academic housing.
Note:
Our blog offers diverse information across multiple topics, backed by research and data. However, the content should not be considered definitive, and discrepancies with other sources may exist. We do not endorse all schemes or offers mentioned, and readers are encouraged to verify additional details for benefits beyond our coverage.
