Being away from home, and at college is anything but easy. Don't get me wrong, I am thoroughly enjoying my experiences here at OU. I am so glad I picked this school to go to, and I am eager to make some more memories, but not seeing my family every day is a new and rather strange feeling for me. On a daily basis, I talk to my family back home. Whether it's texting, FaceTiming, or calling my parents and little sister, I always find a way to stay in touch with my loved ones. However, there is a particular someone who I haven't been able to talk to. Her name is Missy James, and she is my adorable English bulldog who we adopted around four years ago.

When I packed all my bags for OU, I realized that my dog was non-stop sniffing my luggage. It was then I realized that Missy has no comprehension of what I am doing. She had no idea that I was preparing to leave for months on end to go to school, and Missy has no idea if I am returning or not. I had been informed after being away for a week that Missy sniffs around in my room from time to time; curious as to where I am.

Out of sadness from my dog separation, I discussed this issue with some friends over lunch. One of my friends was concerned that her cat was acting differently around her after she left for a couple of weeks. I guess "pet separation" is a real issue of leaving for school that doesn't get talked about very much.

Luckily, I was FaceTiming my Mom yesterday, and my Mom called for Missy. Missy came wiggling over to the screen and started sniffing the screen as I excitedly yelled out her name. I don't know if she understood if it was me or not, or just liked the high-pitched noise that was coming from the phone, but it felt so nice to see her furry little face again.

So for everybody else dealing with the sadness "pet separation" brings during their college years, let's just remember that our little furry, slimy and scaly friends will love us no matter when we come back!