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| My lovely Corgi-Dachshund mix, Tucker. |
It’s common to be excited about studying abroad, but one thing you might forget to account for is leaving behind your beloved fur baby. I know I did and, if I’m being brutally honest, sometimes I missed my dog more than my family! (Sorry mom). I decided to share my tips and advice for dealing with separation anxiety for your best bud back home — or at the very least, make coping a little bit easier during your time abroad.
1. Pictures
Take some pictures with you, create a new folder in your phone, or have your family send some to you over Wi-Fi! Whether you’re about to go to bed or you want to show all your new study abroad friends what you’re missing, having pictures will make all the difference. And seeing that cute little face can make your day a little easier.
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| My sister sent me photos of Tucker while I was in Costa Rica. |
Although there is debate on whether or not your pet can actually see you on video chats or not, being able to see and speak to them in real-time is so, so worth it! I can’t tell you the number of times my host family probably thought I was a little crazy, talking in a puppy-voice trying to get my dog’s attention. But it was so nice to see him react to my voice and watch him wag his tail!
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Tucker during one of his rare moments when he smiles for the camera
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I wish I had thoroughly researched my options while I was studying abroad in Costa Rica, because I might have learned about the “Land of Strays” and been able to visit. It’s a free range shelter that could have 900 stray dogs living there at one time. If there isn’t a huge paradise like this, maybe look into volunteering at local animal shelters in your area or visiting with neighbors who have pets. Anything that could give you the kind of animal love you’re missing. There wasn’t a shelter close to me, but luckily my host family had a small chihuahua named Loto, who loved having his head rubbed. Volunteering can boost not only your study abroad experience and emotional state, but your resume, too!
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| Territorio de Zaguates, or “Land of the Strays” –Source |
Okay, so this one might be a little extra, but I bought souvenirs for my friends and family, so why not my furry BFF back home? It could be as simple as a dog treat, or as extravagant as a handmade blanket. It depends on how much your willing to spend and what you think would make your pet happy.
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| Tucker with his adorable dog-sized life jacket |
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by Amanda Simmons
USAC Summer Young Professionals Program 2016
Home University: University of Arkansas
USAC Program: Puntarenas, spring 2015
Hey there! I’m Amanda, I’m 22, and I just graduated from the University of Arkansas. I studied abroad with USAC during spring 2015 in Puntarenas, Costa Rica!
