If you're anything like me, you miss your pets immensely whenever you leave home to head back to college. Leaving home and going back to school after long breaks is painful enough due to the fact that I'm leaving my friends and family once again; but, then I'm leaving my beloved pets behind as well.

I've discovered that life gets a whole lot better when you've got a furry or not-so-furry friend to spend it with. Here are a few reasons as to why this is so:

1. They teach you responsibility.

As college students, most of us don't have to worry about anyone other than ourselves. Owning a pet changes that, because now you have at least one other life to take care of!

2. Spending time with them is a nice stress-reliever.

With constant classes, homework, quizzes, projects, and tests, school can become overwhelming. Having pets to pet or hold helps release all the stress and tension that comes with school.

3. If they're big enough, they'll cuddle with you.

One of my personal favorites: cuddles! Many pets are more than willing to get some belly rubs and kisses, and most of us are more than willing to give them. Show some love towards your kitten, puppy, bunny, fish... whatever you want to cuddle.

4. They can help keep you physically fit.

Since most pets need physical exercise, they tend to get us out of our homes and outside. Take your pets to the park and it'll be a nice workout for all of you!

5. They'll never judge you.

Whether you're having a rough day, or simply just don't want to get dressed or do your hair, your pets will never judge you. They don't care what you look like; they love you for you.

6. They'll always take a selfie with you.

Even if they would rather not, your pets will never say "no" to a selfie. Not to mention, most people love a cute selfie with an animal (so post that picture on social media; please!)

7. They'll make you laugh.

This one's a given. Pets probably don't even realize when they're being cute or funny, but we'll laugh anyway.

8. They'll watch your favorite shows with you.

My puppy back home loves to watch Netflix with me - especially when food is involved!

9. They'll always greet you when you come home.

I don't know if my pets are excited to see me, or are just excited to be fed and walked, but either way, they never fail to be happy when I walk through the front door.

10. They're good listeners.

There are countless times when we, as college students, have something we really want to talk about with nobody to talk about it with. Luckily, pets will always listen when you speak to them.

11. They become family.

Most importantly, your pets will become a part of your family. Being apart from your friends and family members at home may be rough, but it is always nice to come home to a loving companion in college.