Living with a pet while pursuing your education can greatly enhance your university experience. Recognizing this, many institutions now offer pet-friendly housing options. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to apply for and thrive in a pet-friendly community on campus, ensuring a smooth process for both pet owners and non-pet owners alike.
Understanding Pet-Friendly Housing Policies and Application
Pet-friendly communities in student housing operate on a first-come, first-served basis due to space limitations. Acceptance into these communities often depends on current occupancy. To maintain a harmonious environment for everyone, all residents, whether pet owners or not, must complete specific forms and adhere to community guidelines. Failure to comply may result in having to relocate or remove the pet from the premises.
Step-by-Step Application for Pet Owners
For students wishing to bring their pets to live with them, the application process involves several key steps:
Step 1: Complete the Online Housing and Dining Contract
Begin by accessing your university’s Housing Portal and complete the Online Housing and Dining Contract. During this process, indicate your interest in living in pet-friendly housing within the Specialized Housing section. You’ll typically be asked to rank your building preferences, such as Lawrenson Hall, Harrison Hall, or Belford Hall, depending on availability.
Step 2: Submit the Pet-Friendly Community Application
After completing the housing contract, navigate to the “Pet-Friendly Application” form, usually found under the “Forms” section of the housing portal. This is where you’ll officially apply to bring your pet into student housing. Prepare the necessary documents as outlined in the next step before filling out this application.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Required Documents
Before you start filling out the Pet-Friendly Community Application and Pet Owner documents, gather all necessary information and documents:
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Roommate requests: If you have preferred roommates, ensure this is clearly stated in your application.
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Basic pet information: Be ready to provide details about your pet, including their name, type of animal (dog, cat, etc.), breed (if applicable, especially for dogs), age, weight, and emergency contact information in case you are unreachable.
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Vaccination Records: Up-to-date vaccination records are crucial.
- Dogs:
- Required: Rabies (initially at 16 weeks, then as legally required) and Distemper (puppy shots and boosters as needed).
- Recommended: Bordetella (every 6 months to a year) and Leptospirosis (annually).
- Cats:
- Required: Rabies (initially at 16 weeks, then as legally required) and FVRCP (kitten shots followed by a booster every 3 years).
- Dogs:
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Proof of spay or neuter: Documentation confirming that your pet has been spayed or neutered is generally required.
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Photo of your pet: A recent photograph of your pet for identification purposes.
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Greeley Animal License: Obtain a Greeley Animal License. While not mandatory to have at the application stage, securing it beforehand can be helpful. You must obtain this license before your pet is present in the housing community, even if you apply without it initially and get it after room assignment.
Information for Students Not Bringing Pets
Students who wish to live in the pet-friendly community but do not intend to bring a pet should still complete Step 1, the Online Housing and Dining Contract, indicating their preference for pet-friendly housing. This allows for a diverse community and ensures understanding of the environment.
Returning Students
For returning students who are keeping their same housing space, you will be contacted via email if any of your pet documentation needs updating. If you have any queries, reach out to your Residential Coordinator for assistance.
Living in a pet-friendly community can be a rewarding experience. By following these steps and adhering to the guidelines, you and your pet can enjoy a comfortable and welcoming environment on campus.
