Spring Hill students are not just bringing laptops and backpacks to campus this year; they are bringing their dogs and cats to join them, too. As more and more students turn to pets for emotional support, companionship, and overall joy, spotting a dog on campus has become increasingly regular for students. 

Rachel Martin, senior, says her terrier mix, Pell, has made her college experience more fulfilling. “Pell keeps me busy but in the best way,” Martin said. “College can be overwhelming, but coming home to Pell makes even the hardest days feel a little easier. He is a part of my routine, and honestly, I can not imagine being here without him.”

The college currently permits emotional support animals (ESAs) in certain residence halls with appropriate documentation, and it is becoming increasingly common to see dogs lounging outside of the apartments, strolling around campus, or on a walk with their owner down the Avenue of the Oaks.

Maggie Nitsche, junior, lives with her rescue dog, Bear. She claims that having a rescue dog as a college student has added structure and purpose to her everyday life. “Bear gets me up in the morning, even when I am not feeling it,” Nitsche said. “He helps me stick to a schedule and gives me something to care for beyond myself. It has made me more responsible.” 

Of course, having a dog on campus comes with its challenges. Creating a safe living environment for a dog on a college campus is the owner’s responsibility. Students with dogs must balance pet care with schoolwork, social lives, and jobs. The responsibility of having a dog on campus is not a small undertaking, but it can be extremely rewarding. 

Still, for many Spring Hill College students, the benefits outweigh the struggles. Whether it is emotional support or the reminder to take a break and go for a walk, dogs are quickly becoming beloved members of the Spring Hill community. 

“Students always stop and come to say hi when they see Pell,” Martin added. “He brings joy and laughs to more than just me.” 

With some planning and responsibility, student dog owners are proving that you can always make college life feel like home by bringing your favorite part of home with you. 

For more information about Spring Hill College’s procedures for Animal Accommodations within housing, check out the housing accommodations page on the Spring Hill College website.