When college students depart for school, it can bring about psychological repercussions for both the dogs and students. Dogs, being inherently social animals, forge strong bonds with their human companions. Consequently, this separation can impose considerable challenges for them, especially when one considers the substantial amount of time the student has likely spent with their beloved dog. Given the extensive content accessibility on social media, you may have come across distressing facts or statistics regarding the influence of dog owners leaving their pets. However, what is the actual reality of how dogs feel in these circumstances? Here is a breakdown of how both humans and their dogs are thought to be affected by this annual separation, as interpreted through the lens of psychological science.
Although the impact of this separation is particularly significant for dogs, it undeniably affects college students as well. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, a nonprofit organization specializing in demographics and opinion polls, approximately 62% of Americans are pet owners, with about 75% of them having dogs. An astonishing 97% of these pet owners consider their pets to be integral family members, underscoring the profound bonds formed between humans and animals. When students depart their pets for college, they often grapple with emotions such as guilt, worry, stress, homesickness and the complexities of emotional attachment. After all, a dog is considered a person’s most loyal companion. While many of us can relate to these emotions from a human perspective, let us explore what this separation means from a dog’s point of view.
Dogs are known for their social nature and ability to form strong emotional bonds with their human companions. Additionally, they are creatures of habit, and they thrive on routine and the presence of their loved ones. The sudden absence of a college student can trigger separation anxiety in dogs. This causes them to become anxious, stressed or even fearful when left alone, as they are completely unsure of when their beloved human will return. Pet MD, an online pet health resource, claims dogs are capable of experiencing emotions such as sadness and depression. The lack of a familiar face and the changes in their daily routine can lead to a decrease in their overall happiness. They may appear less active, lose interest in play and exhibit signs of lethargy. Plus, dogs do not fully understand why their owner has left, and they do not know when they will return, meaning they may spend more time searching for their missing owner or waiting by the door, hoping for their return.
On a positive note, returning home and reuniting with your dog marks a meaningful moment in their lives, strengthening the deep bond that exists between dogs and their human companions. Upon your arrival, you will likely notice a spike in their energy levels, accompanied but such emotions as joy, relief and excitement. While each dog is unique, you can anticipate increased displays of affection and a heightened desire to play. After all, they missed us just as much as we missed them.
To conclude, the separation of college students from their dogs can result in psychological impacts on both parties. Dogs may experience separation anxiety, depression and confusion due to the absence of their beloved owner. Meanwhile, students may grapple with guilt, homesickness and the loss of emotional support from their dogs. It is essential for both students and their dogs to find ways to cope with this separation and maintain a sense of connection and well-being.
Sources: pewresearch.org and petmd.com