You love your pets, but college isn't the place for pets. Sure, the cute kitten or adorable puppy might seem like a good idea. Yeah, I know your roommate says they will pitch in and help, but they won't.

Most schools have rules against pets, but if the chance arises you find yourself in off campus housing, rethink the whole pet thing. Pets are reliant on you and your time for survival. If you decided to head home for a week you'll need to make arrangements for care.

Yet, pets are a strong factor in helping you through tough times. Pets provide balance and companionship, which you might need in the middle of the night before an exam. So, what to do?

I think you can cross out dogs, cats, pot bellied pigs and any other animal larger than the size of your fist. Get a terrarium and select a smaller pet such as a lizard, chameleon, hamster or snake. Though if you get a snake make sure the person who feeds it knows what they are doing. For reference watch the movie Road Trip.

You should shoot for a pet that interacts with you and provides some stimulation, so I would take fish off the list. Yes, I know they can be relaxing, but they don't deliver the punch others do.