Who let the dogs in? Lyon College announced today that it will introduce pet-friendly campus housing for the upcoming 2018-2019 school year, the first college in the state to do so according to its press release. Sorry, snake handlers, it sounds like the designated residence hall, which will open up spots for 20 students to bring their furry friends, will just be for cats and dogs. The college may open up additional residence halls to pets if demand grows. And it will offer pet obedience courses. Thank goodness.

Pets will be welcome to areas all over campus, and the college’s new coffee shop will include treats for both students and pets. The college is also building a fenced-in dog park.

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Here’s a statement from President W. Joseph King:

We will be the only pet-friendly college from Texas to Virginia. It is exciting to move Lyon in a more pet-friendly direction. Like many of our students, my family has had beloved dogs and cats. We know how much they are a part of your life. Therefore, this change seemed like a progressive step for student life at the college. Initial reaction from current and prospective students has been very positive.

College Chaplain Maggie Alsup will offer a pet blessing each October, on the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of animals.

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Alsup’s statement:

It is a time to recognize our mutual interdependence with God’s creatures and to give thanks for the relationships we have with them.

My wife teaches at a college here in Florida that has a pet-friendly campus and students often ask to bring pets to class. It’s an abomination.

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Interested students at Lyon College should visit here for more information.

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