CANTON -- SUNY Canton has been named one of the most “pet-friendly” colleges in the nation.

Petside.com recently named the college to its 2011 Top 10 Pet Friendly Colleges list because of its dedication to small animals and well-known Pet Wing housing option for students.

SUNY Canton President Dr. Joseph L. Kennedy says that with the well known veterinary program at the college come “passionate students who can’t bear to think about leaving their pet at home while they’re at college.”

The college was featured on Petside.com’s website with the accolade, noting the nice environment and the opportunity for “pet lovers to live together and bond and forge friendships over the animal companions that become the conversation-starters between new students.”

“The Pet Wing is absolutely one of the most popular choices among students,” said Director of Residence Life Courtney B. Bish. “It gives them the chance to bring a small piece of home with them and also helps ward against homesickness.”

The Pet Wing has been a housing option since 1997. While students are not allowed to bring dogs, snakes or birds, they are permitted to bring small, caged pets from home with prior approval.

“We’ve had many cats, bunnies and other four-legged friends live in the Pet Wing,” Bish noted.