UMKC students balance classes, jobs and social lives, and for some, taking care of their pets is an added challenge.
Several UMKC students say caring for their animals improves their routines, supports their mental health and makes campus life more meaningful despite the extra time and financial commitment.
“My ESA is my best friend,” said Anya Griffin, a sophomore nursing major who lives at Hospital Hill Apartments. “She is mostly independent while I’m away at class, but when I’m home she’s always right there.”
Griffin said her emotional support cat, Cali, has become an essential part of her daily routine.
Griffin coordinates with roommates so the cat can roam freely, and says the responsibility has been manageable.
“I have not felt overwhelmed,” Griffin said. “If anything, having her here makes coming home at the end of the day even better.”
Griffin estimates she spends about $100 per month on food and supplies and said caring for Cali has helped her stay organized and accountable.
A number of students say pets make dorm living more manageable and meaningful.
“Having my orange cat Butters in the dorms has been both comforting and motivating,” said junior film and media arts major Maddie vonFischbach. “Because both my work-study job and internship are on campus, I’m able to check on him throughout the day.”
Not all UMKC pet owners are students. Academic Advisor Jessica Gomes says planning and shared responsibility make pet ownership manageable in her household.
“I wouldn’t have gotten it if I didn’t have a partner or roommate that was willing to share responsibilities,” Gomes said, noting she lives in an apartment.
She starts her day early with a morning walk and said the biggest surprises have been unexpected vet bills and boarding costs.
“Everything costs so much money,” Gomes said.
Gomes estimates her expenses average $100-$150 per month, but said splitting costs with her partner keeps it manageable.
Journalism student Keely Keck cares for Tank, her energetic ferret, whose needs require careful planning and a strict routine.
“Ferrets need to have two to four hours of play a day, or else they get lonely,” Keck said.
To keep up, she wakes up two and a half hours early each morning to give Tank dedicated playtime before classes or work. They also spend about an hour and a half playing each night.
Keck admits the responsibility can sometimes feel overwhelming but said effort is worth it.
“He is my world, and I love him,” Keck said.
Across different majors and roles at UMKC, these pet owners shared one common perspective: the extra work pays off.
Whether it’s a cat waiting by the door, a dog ready for a morning walk or a ferret with fans in the student union. Their pets provide companionship, emotional support and motivation to stay on top of daily responsibilities.
