Studying with a Pet: How Four-Legged Friends Enrich Everyday Student Life
In honor of “Love Your Pet Day” on February 20: Practical tips for succeeding in college while living with pets—and why pets support not only your heart but also your learning.
The morning glance into the cat’s sleepy eyes, the dog’s excited wagging of its tail, or the soft rustling in the small animal enclosure—for many FERNFH students, these moments are an integral part of everyday life. But how can you balance your studies with the needs of a pet? To mark “Love Your Pet Day” on February 20, we’ll show you how to successfully live with animal companions while studying remotely—and why pets can even contribute to your academic success.
The Science Behind It: Why Pets Are Good for College Students
Research shows that having a pet offers tangible benefits for students. A study by Washington State University demonstrates that just ten minutes of petting a pet is enough to measurably lower cortisol levels—our stress hormone. This reduction in stress can be crucial, especially during exam periods.
Of particular interest to students: A recent study by Washington State University involving first-year students showed that regular contact with therapy dogs over several months not only reduces stress and depression but also increases self-compassion. The students who regularly spent time with the dogs experienced a smaller decline in well-being—a phenomenon that typically occurs frequently among first-year students.
Pets also help establish structure and routine in daily life. Set times for feeding and exercise help you plan study sessions more effectively. And a regular walk with the dog becomes a reliable study break that also provides physical activity—a factor that has been proven to boost cognitive performance. In addition, having a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness and improve overall well-being—which is especially important when studying remotely.
Practical Tips: How to Balance College Life with a Pet
Flexible Study Schedules
The FERNFH distance learning model offers a key advantage: Most of the coursework can be completed anytime, anywhere. Many students deliberately plan their study sessions around their pets’ needs—taking the dog for a walk in the morning before work, or reading course materials in peace in the evening after feeding them.
Plan your on-campus sessions well in advance
The maximum of 3×2 on-campus sessions per semester are announced well in advance. This gives you plenty of time to arrange pet care—whether through family, friends, or professional pet sitters.
Make Active Use of Study Breaks
Researchers recommend taking regular breaks while studying anyway. A short walk with the dog, playing with the cat, or cleaning out the pet’s enclosure provide some exercise and help clear your head. The Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of studying, 5-minute break) pairs well with these short moments with your pet.
Setting Up an Animal-Friendly Study Space
A cozy blanket next to the desk for the dog or a sunny spot on the windowsill for the cat can help keep everyone happy. For noisier pets, noise-canceling headphones can be helpful during online lectures.
Coping with Stress Together
Pets can be a valuable source of support, especially during intense exam periods. Taking a moment to pause and pet your pet helps lower stress levels and allows you to continue with a clear head. Pets sense our tension—deliberate moments of relaxation benefit everyone.
Conclusion: Pets as Study Companions
Studying while having a pet is not an obstacle—quite the opposite. With the right organization and a flexible study model, living with a pet can even become a factor for success. Many FERNFH students report that their pets not only provide them with emotional support but also help them maintain a structured and balanced daily study routine.
On “Love Your Pet Day” on February 20, all FERNFH students with four-legged friends have an extra reason to pause and thank their animal companions—for their loyal support through study periods, exam stress, and moments of success.
Are you a student with a pet and want to share your experiences? Write to us at muk@fernfh.ac.at — we look forward to hearing your story!
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