Most University of Otago residential colleges have animal companions, usually in the form of a dog.
University College assistant master Chris Jacobs said residents loved to crowd around border collie Tomau (6), also known as the UniCollie.
''He lives in my house, but I make him available for kids to take him to their rooms and for walks.
''In my office at UniCol he'll sit outside and students will sit there and give him pats. He's the friendliest, chillest dog I've ever met.''
When the dog was young he developed a condition called parvo, which is often fatal.
''But he survived it, and they said he was going to be small for his breed, but he's actually quite large for his breed, despite his illness.''
His impressive trick was responding to various Maori commands such as coming to haere mai, and lying down to takoto.
''So many students come along and say 'I left my dog at home; I just feel so much more at home now'.''
Knox College deputy master Caroline Hepburn-Doole said her black Labrador Moth (5) had a great sense of hall rivalry.
''She comes to most of our events against Selwyn with her gear on. We have a nice photo of her stealing a Selwyn scarf.''
They both lived on the Knox grounds and the dog had a bed in her office.
''Students want quality dog time. I think they miss their pets just as much as they miss their people.''
The college also had a resident cat, and more recently a magpie which tapped on students' windows.
''They all get along all right now; not so well to begin with.''
Selwyn College warden Ashley Day said his poodle Lukas (10) was great with students.
''Back when I was warden of Te Rangi before coming here he'd go into the students' rooms. He knew the ones that would give him lollies.''
Last year the college organised for the Otago SPCA to bring dogs into its common room during study break, he said.
''They have a marvellous de-stressing effect on kids.''
Otago University Colleges senior warden Jamie Gilbertson said there were also two cats at Hayward College and one staff member at Arana College who cared for kittens short-term before rehoming.
Studholme College had its chocolate Labrador Chewy, Arana its beagle Taz and there was ''maybe a spaniel at Salmond''.
''In providing a home-like atmosphere some animals are welcome in colleges and they do in fact provide a calming influence in times of challenge like bereavement, stress and homesickness.
''Just as they might in an aged-care facility, animals provide company, fun and comfort.''
