I’m heading off to college this fall, and although I’m very excited, I know that the one thing I will miss the most about home is my dog. I can call my mom or dad or grandparents at any time and talk to them, but I can’t do that with my dog. I’ve had her for almost ten years and I love her dearly.
It’s not like I’m so emotionally attached to her that I can’t leave her for periods of time. I’ve never felt funny about going on vacation because I know that in a week I’ll see her again. However, my college is a few hour drive away, so I’ll be going weeks without being able to pet her and see her in person. I’m worried that this is going to have a negative effect on me and her absence from my life will be a huge trigger of my homesickness.
Does anyone have any suggestions on how to cope with missing a pet in college?
We bought my daughter a larger than life, custom, card board cut out of our dog. She’s now a junior and still takes it with her to school. We also brought our dog to see her when we could - luckily she’s just an hour and change away.
Have your parents Face-Time your dog to you. My DS sometimes want to see our cat when he contacts his sisters. I think you dog would be more interest than our stubborn cat. Do keep in mind that you aren’t going into exile and will have opportunities to go home for holidays and breaks. Take comfort in knowing that she is safe and sound at home.
I sent texts of our dog to our D often, we facetimed with the dog, and whenever we went to her campus for visits, we brought the dog with us. Also rest assured that you will be warmly welcomed by your four legged family member when you do come home.
I text D pics of the cat all the time. I also send her videos, and I put the cat on the phone and FaceTime. That keeps my D happy enough until she next sees the cat. You’ll be fine.
Pets are family, but they aren’t humans. Your dog will have other family members to keep it company, and your dog won’t be missing you the way you will miss it.
If you are looking for a homesickness trigger, you will find one, so don’t start off in that mindset. If it’s really a concern, find a local animal shelter to volunteer at. That’s might give you some balance and perspective.
You can’t call your dog on the phone but you can totally Skype or FaceTime him or her. My bf’s mom often shows us his cats when we Skype and one cat definitely knows it’s us (the smart one haha) but a dog will almost certainly be able to recognize your voice. It’ll also give you motivation to contact your parents regularly which you and they will appreciate!
Thank you for the great suggestions, everyone! I’m comforted knowing that my mom will be taking care of my dog when I’m away, so she’ll be getting plenty of love. Although it will be hard not seeing her often, I know I can get through this. @4gsmom hahaha!! I didn’t even realize you could purchase one of those. Might not be a bad idea
Lots of companies online will take a photo of your pet and will turn it into an pet-shaped pillow. (Google “Pet image pillow.”) You might enjoy having one in your dorm!
