For many, leaving home for college not only means saying goodbye to the comfort of routine or familiar faces, it also means leaving the furry friends who have been with you through everything. In my eighteen years of life, I have never lived without a dog. My parents got a dog soon after they married and as soon as he passed away, we were back getting another one. I can definitely say my current pups, Jak and Pearl, are a huge part of my life. They help cope with my anxiety and depression as well as remain the loyal little balls of fur they are. Going off to college without them was a big adjustment. So, how did I learn to live without them?
1. Make a Shrine
People will judge you, I’m not going to lie. But it really helps. Before I stepped out the door on my own adventure, I was gifted a picture frame collage of my dogs and I. It’s currently hanging on the wall of my dorm room and I have no shame. Whenever I’m missing them, I know I can glance over and see their fuzzy faces staring back at me.
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2. Substitute with a Person or Stuffed Animal
Of course, neither of these options will measure up to the bond with your pooch, but it may be the only option you have. Be careful with this one. Not everyone likes to be smothered and squeezed like your critters back home. Make sure to ask for permission, or be on the safe side and stick with your trusty stuffed animal.
3. FaceTime Them
Text your mom and tell her you miss her so much and want to FaceTime. Then, make it very clear it’s not her you care about, it’s the dogs snuggled up on her lap. Also, make sure she gets a good angle of them so you can screenshot them multiple times. Your roommate may think you’re obsessed by the squeaky tone of your voice, assure her that she’s correct.
4. Pet Other Pups on the Street
Just because you can’t see your own dogs every day doesn’t mean that they have completely become extinct. It’s almost guaranteed that you will come across one strolling around campus with their owner. Ask the owner if you can pet their dog and then have at it! It’s proven that petting a dog increases your level of serotonin which helps with overall happiness. Obviously, it feels better to give love to your own, but the cute Fido on the street will do in the meantime.
5. Cry It Out
Okay, this may be a little much. But for the nights you are completely stressed out with school or realize the cute guy who lives down the hall likes someone else, you just want your baby. That’s okay. Let it out and when you see them next time, it will be the most fulfilling reunion ever.
6. Be Grateful for Them But Also Understand They Love You and Are Happy You’re Following Your Dreams and Living Your Life
