Everyone has heard that dogs are a man’s best friend, but they are also many students’ best friends.
In fact, many students on campus have a dog of their own, whether at college with them or back at home. Students are very excited to share about their beloved companions.
Senior criminal justice major Taylor Huntoon shared a little about her adored German Shepherd, Hans, noting a particularly odd trait for a breed known for being strong and protective.
“He will be two in June, and he’s like 95 lbs,” Huntoon said. “I think he’s pretty much scared of everything, which is kind of funny for his breed.”
Huntoon also shared a bit about her dog’s personality and what she loves about him, sharing about his love for everyone around him.
“He loves to be around people, and he’s very protective of our family,” Huntoon said. “I think I just love how loyal he is to you and how much he truly loves you.”
In addition to sharing what she loves about Hans, Huntoon discussed why it is meaningful for people to have a pet.
“I think it’s helpful if people feel lonely sometimes or like they just need something there for them, especially during hard times,” Huntoon said.
It is not uncommon for students to have several dogs and many of them especially enjoy larger breeds.
Senior criminal justice major Hayley Riggi revealed that she has three Rottweilers named Gracie, Addie and Lincoln. Riggi shared a little bit about her three beloved companions back at home.
“They’re actually all biological siblings from the same mom and dad, just three different litters,” Riggi said.
Additionally, she described her favorite thing about each of them, highlighting their different and unique personalities.
“My favorite thing about Gracie is how loving she is. Addie, my favorite thing is probably that she’s a cuddler. Lincoln, my favorite thing about him is probably how protective he is,” Riggi said.
Many people enjoy owning dogs for their emotional support during tough times and their unconditional love. Riggi shared a little bit about how owning a dog can be beneficial.
“I think it’s meaningful just because a lot of people, you know, come home from a stressful day, whether it’s school, work, anything, and I think dogs really help with that emotional aspect,” Riggi said. “I think they’re really there to kind of comfort you, and they bring a smile to everybody’s face.”
Other students enjoy dogs for their companionship and high-energy personalities that provide entertainment.
Senior in the Ready for Life program, Emily Blake, talked about her two dogs, Gary and Phil, describing what she enjoys about them.
“They make great companions,” Blake said. “They’re both crazy and playful.”
Blake also shared what she believes is essential about owning a pet, emphasizing the need for proper training.
“I just think they make great companions if they’re well-trained, and they just are very comforting,” Blake said.
Many students on campus have dogs back home that are excited to greet them the minute they walk back through the door and the students love their dogs just as much.