One common feeling among many people during the global pandemic was the feeling of extreme sadness and loneliness. To cope with these feelings, many people bought pets. Having a furry friend, or in this case an exotic pet, helped sophomore Macy Hutfless through the pandemic.

“I didn’t plan on getting a new pet, but I walked into Pet Smart and saw him in the case and just knew I had to have him,” Hutfless said. “We had a staring contest and I knew this breaded dragon was going to be my forever friend.”

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), has reported a 500 percent increase in foster applications through their Los Angeles and New York offices since March 15, according to Vox.com.

“I’m not surprised with the rise in adoptions, a pet is the best thing to get anyone through a pandemic,” Hutfless said. “They will lay with you and you can pet them. They are a huge stress reliever.”

Sophomore Jessica Conway also got a pet, a rabbit.

“I adopted a bunny because I wanted something to keep me busy,” Conway said. “It was kind of a quick decision and I didn’t fully know what I was getting into, but it has been a great learning experience.”

According to a study done by the Mental Health foundation in the UK in 2011, 76 percent of people who owned pets, specifically a cat, reported being able to cope with every day life much easier because of their pet.

“I want a thousand more bearded dragons,” Hutfless said. “If I had the room or the time to raise them I would have so many more pets.”