As college move-in day is approaching quickly, many college students feel nervous or sad about leaving family and friends behind. And, of course, they will miss their beloved pets. Pets are a source of comfort for many teens and young adults, and provide emotional support and overall happiness too.
How teens can “bring” their pet to college
Note: We are a reader-supported site and may receive compensation from purchases made through some of the links in this post.
1. Pet Pillows
A pet pillow is a perfect gift to give your college student because they can use it as a throw pillow on their bed. You can get a pet pillow that is shaped like the animal. These pillows are almost as good as your pet being there. Almost!
2. Custom Throw Blanket With Dog Photo
A personalized pet throw blanket is great for movie nights in college! This customized pet blanket is super soft and ultra-comfortable.
3. Custom Pet Portrait Mug
Get a custom pet portrait for your college student so they can start their morning with a fresh cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea while seeing their adorable pet. Comes in two sizes — 11 oz or 15 oz.
4. Custom Pet Pajamas
Check out these custom pet pajamas, made with a silky-soft fabric blend (96% polyester/4% spandex) and are available in various styles: short sleeves and shorts, long sleeves and pants, or any combination of the two! Plus, buying these pajamas feeds 10 shelter pets.
5. Pet Socks
If you want a funnier going-away gift, get custom pet socks! Not only are these super soft, but they are also extra special because they are made from recycled plastic bottles, which makes them sustainable, too.
6. Custom Pet Portraits
Get a custom pet portrait that your student can hang up in their dorm room or apartment, reminding them of their pet anytime they’re in their room. You can choose up to three pets per portrait and the portraits are printed on gallery-quality paper and ready-to-hang components come pre-attached to the hardwood frame.
7. Pet Photo Gallery Towel
An extra towel is a necessity in college for trips to the beach, pool days, or simply tanning outdoors. This pet towel is made with a personalized front, plush cotton back, and is machine washable.
8. Dog Parent Dual Portrait Mug
We love these 10-ounce porcelain mugs which can be personalized with a likeness of your teen and their BFF pup or cat. Choose from among dozens of breeds. Made in England.
9. Pet Portrait Name Necklace
A pet portrait necklace is a cute way your student can accessorize and is also very unique. These are available in silver, gold, or rose gold. The pet photo will be engraved on the disc charm. Your student can show off their pet in style!
10. Custom Pet T-Shirt
This custom pet T-shirt is so adorable! Available in 17 different colors, you are sure to find your teen’s favorite color!
11. Custom Pet Portrait Keychain
With this custom pet keychain, your student will always have their pet with them! It comes in silver, gold, or rose gold, and you can choose the font of the pet’s name too!
12. Customizable Dog Portrait Sweatshirt
These sweatshirts are so trendy! They come in four colors and feature your dog or cat’s face and name.
13. Custom Pet Photo Bracelet
This cute bracelet is simple and features an engraved image of your pet. It comes in silver, gold, or rose gold. Having pet jewelry is also a great conversation starter at college!
14. Custom Painted Pet Portrait
For a truly amazing gift, choose to have your pet painted by artist MG Stout who uses your photo as a guide to create a remarkable and unique work of art. Each is painted on canvas using acrylic paint.
More Great Reading:
