Moving thirteen hours away from home was an enormous step in my life’s journey. While studying at Howard University, I coped with homesickness by texting, calling, and FaceTiming my friends and family. Hearing their encouraging words and support kept me going as the school year progressed.

Yet, there was one family member who didn’t understand why I left or when I would return: Glitter, my sassy, energetic, eight-pound Yorkie.

The Language Barrier

Leaving my “precious baby” four states away for months at a time was one of the most emotionally challenging experiences I’ve ever faced. Not only had we been inseparable since I adopted her ten years ago, but she had no idea why I was packing up and leaving her. On the day I left for college, she tried to climb onto my suitcases, attempting to pack herself along with me.

I tried to express to her that I’d be back for Thanksgiving, but she didn’t understand. For the first few months, she spent her time whining and sleeping outside my bedroom door instead of in her cozy bed. Seeing her actions broke my heart and prompted me to create a plan to help other students prepare their pets for a big college move.

During the Summer: Transfer Care Duties

First, slowly start to shift responsibilities onto your pet’s new caregivers over the summer. Once you move, you won’t be able to take them on walks, feed them, or give them treats. To ease this transition for everyone, gradually transfer these responsibilities to their new caregiver.

This process helped Glitter significantly as she adjusted to her new walking and feeding schedule with my sister, Olivia.

Before the Move: Leave Your Scent

Make sure you leave something behind with your scent on it to comfort your pet. Have an old sweatband, pair of socks, or T-shirt? Wear it around the house in the weeks leading up to your move. That way, your pet can have a personal keepsake of you whenever they feel lonely.

After the Move: Call Your Pet

Once you’re settled in at school, continue to check in on your pet via FaceTime so they can recognize, hear, and see you. The adjustment process may take time. However, seeing your furry friend run to the phone when they hear your voice is worth it.

Even though your pet may not “speak,” they still want to hear from you and know you’re looking out for them. Little check-ins go a long way!

Prepare for Change Together

Overall, following these steps can lead to a smoother emotional transition into college for both you and your pet. It helps new caregivers ease into their roles and allows pets to accept the changes that college brings.

Even though I may be away for months at a time, these adjustments seemed to help Glitter understand I still care. And the quality time we have together during my visits home reassures her. She knows we still have many dog park days, pet store visits, and pup-cup trips in our future!

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