Dogs Welcome On Northeast College Grounds

Northeast College of Health Sciences is joining a growing number of colleges and universities that are becoming pet friendly by allowing dogs on external campus grounds.

“There’s no doubt that dogs are a welcome addition to people’s lives, and we are excited to announce that because of this, Northeast will now welcome dogs on campus,” said Northeast College President Dr. Michael Mestan.

There are rules that apply, of course, all of which are mapped out in the new Northeast College Guidelines for Dogs on Campus.

For example, the guidelines state that dog owners should always consider that members of the Northeast community may have allergies, fear of dogs or discomfort with barking and other behaviors that can’t always be controlled.

Dogs, except for Service Animals, are not allowed in any Northeast campus building, including residence halls, without prior permission. However, plans at the College are to welcome dogs and their owners to the driveways, sidewalks and established walking trails through the new afforested area adjacent to Bayard St. and Highway 89. Plus, dogs will be welcomed on planned trails through the 45 acres of future trails through the old golf course.

“I have already taken advantage of the new policy and brought my dog Mina (short for Wilhelmina) for a walk. We just ask that owners are mindful of their dogs and other peoples’ reactions while they have their pet on our grounds,” Dr. Mestan added.

Mestan is just one of the College’s senior staff, and many students and employees, who are dog owners and can now bring their pets for a campus visit and walk. Just some dogs the College community could soon see on campus are Asgard, a German Shepherd belonging to Provost Dr. Anne Killen;  Maggie, an Airedoodle owned by Vice President of Stakeholder Engagement Dr. Todd Knudsen; and Clos, Vice President of Enrollment & Planning Dr. Jen Sessler’s Goldendoodle.

Northeast: Proud Member of Dog-Friendly Community.

Seneca Falls and the larger Finger Lakes region are known for being dog friendly. Among the College’s many neighboring hotspots to welcome man’s best friend are breweries and parks, including the waterfall trails of Taughannock Falls State Park and Buttermilks Falls State Park, as well as lodging spots such as The Gould Hotel and even some restaurants.

The popular website Bring Fido,  dedicated to places where dogs are welcome, is scattered with Finger Lakes settings where locals and visitors can bring their dogs. Look for Northeast College on the site soon.