Want to know the grad school survival secret no one talks about? It's just three letters: D-O-G.
Now hear me out. Grad school can be hard, stressful and challenging - yes and of course rewarding, but it is also very lonely. Many of us are away from our close friends, family and support systems. We spend long hours alone, reading, writing and researching. A dog becomes your other half, your best friend, your study buddy, your editor, your advisor, your workout partner, your cuddle companion, and your biggest cheerleader. They are always there to help get you through every deadline, late night study or grading session, and your many grad school goals and milestones.
Many of you might know my sweet dog Charlie who has helped me make so many friends on campus both inside and outside of my department. I tend to be more of an introvert while Charlie is determined to befriend everyone. He was also my VIP ticket into the downtown Kingston dog community. We have an amazing group chat full of support, encouragement, and spontaneous walk invites. Just last night Charlie and 4 other dog friends Herbie, Sully, Juniper and Ellie took an evening stroll together. Seeing them play together and enjoy each other’s company is exactly what I need after a long day.
Kingston is very dog friendly with many housing rentals, stores, restaurants and coffee shop patios welcoming dogs. Some spaces on campus are unofficially dog friendly too. Resources like and many blog posts such as can help navigate all of this. Maybe I’ll do a part 2 and share some of our favorite dog friendly places to visit.
Of course, having your own dog is not for everyone. It is a lot of responsibility, and the expenses can add up quickly – from walking your dog in the snow and rain, to unexpected $$$ vet visits, to matching outfits, and the sudden discovery that your dog only likes expensive Fuddlewuddle Lion Jellycat plush toys and won’t settle for anything less (looking at you, Charlie). The good news? You don’t have to own a dog to get your fill of tail wags and snuggles.
Here are a few other ways to get some much-needed dog time while in grad school:
- Therapy dog visits on campus
Throughout the school year you can find - a fluffy, loveable golden retriever St. John's Ambulance Therapy Dog - hanging out with his lovely handler John on Wednesdays 12pm – 1pm in Mitchell Hall -1st floor atrium. Oscar is always surrounded by students. He absolutely loves behind the ear scratches and tummy rubs and has the biggest smile. Oscar takes his job seriously which is to provide comfort and love to anyone who needs it.
- Volunteer with
This amazing program pairs volunteers with seniors who could use a little help caring for their dogs. Depending on your time and interests, you might walk pups, pet sit, help with grooming, deliver food, or even provide transportation to vet appointments. If you don’t want to work directly with dogs, they also have opportunities to volunteer in leadership, outreach and creative roles which can be great on your resume.
- Dog walking and pet sitting side hustle
Through my undergrad and my master’s degrees I always walked dogs and pet sat as a side hustle. I found my clients by word of mouth but in hindsight it may have been more responsible to use Rover or work for a company – the pro to this is that you are insured if anything happens and there is a large network of people looking for your services – the con is that they take a small cut of your earnings. It is a great way to spend time with a furry friend, get some sunshine, fresh air and exercise and make some extra money without the commitment of owning a dog
Whether its tummy rubs with Oscar, volunteering your time, or turning your love for pups into a side hustle, dogs truly are the best kind of academic support.
P.S. Charlie says hello, sends tail wags and hopes to see you on our next campus walk.