If you've ever had a pet, you know all about the pain of leaving them; there's no way to tell them that you're going, let alone where you'll be or how long it will take. It's easy to be concerned that they'll assume you've left them forever — and that in itself is a special kind of torture. This suffering is especially true of college kids, specifically for those who have left home for the first time and are desperately missing the comfort and happiness that comes with living with pets. Hence, when that instance of reuniting finally comes, there is no better feeling.

1. "I can't wait to come home, I miss my [insert pet here] so much I could die. Oh, and my family, too, I guess."

Parents can talk on the phone. Pets on the other hand...

ALSO READ: Who I'm Going To Miss The Most When I Leave

2. "Wait, what if they forgot who I am!?"

Here we have every pet owner's worst nightmare.

3. "Nah, there's no way they forgot me, they totally love me way too much."

Anyone who has ever owned a pet knows the particular sense of arrogance that comes along with convincing yourself that you're your pet's favorite person.

4. "They totally didn't forget me... right?"

It's all fun and games...

5. "Oh my god, they definitely forgot who I am."

...Until our good, old friend Self-Doubt pops in.

6. "Okay, this is it, the moment I've been waiting for. I don't even care if they forgot me, I miss them so much."

Fear of not being remembered is quickly overshadowed by the excitement of being reunited with your OG best friend.

7. "THEY DIDN'T FORGET ME! I'VE BEEN BLESSED!"

Thankfully, the Pet Gods have shined down on us.

8. "Oh wow they're cuter than I remembered I'm so happy right now I could burst into a million pieces and I think my heart is going to explode"

That first moment of wagging tails and smiling faces is pure bliss.

9. "I don't even care that there's slobber on my face."

A little bit of saliva never hurt anyone.

10. "I never thought I'd be so happy to have someone follow me around."

Pets are the only stalker anyone wants in their lives.

11. "Did they always smell this weird?"

It's funny the things you forget after a couple months. Not that you care, though.

12. "Does my dorm allow animals? Maybe I should say my pet's name is Fish."

It does say on the Dorm Policies list "only fish allowed."

13. "How do I apply for one of those emotional support animal licenses?"

Desperate times call for desperate measures.

14. "Maybe I should just stay home. I don't need an education, I need puppy cuddles."

Why hit the books when you can hit the hay with your four-legged best friend beside you?