Bristol’s BPOCs: Big pets on campus

Mr. Hops

“His name’s Mr. Hops cos he’s only got three legs. He’s a real cutie. He came into the house at the beginning of term. I live with four vets so they feed him and shit because they love animals. Occasionally I come back in and he’s just on my bed which is annoying. He also got stuck in a cupboard for a while.”

-Oscar

Rosie

“It was a 21st birthday present. It’s discovered that if it gnaws really annoyingly and loudly on the cage by the door it will be let out and cuddled. It wees everywhere too.”

-Becca

Raffa

“A lot of people ask why I got a dog at uni but I really wanted one so I got one and here he is. The morning walks are starting to get easier, they’re actually kind of nice when it’s not raining and he’s starting to actually come back.

“So far there’s only been one moment where I regretted getting him and that was when he ate my cheesecake, we didn’t talk for a while after that. I guess if anyone wants to get a dog a uni, be aware your student loan will mostly be spent on them. They will chew stuff and dealing with a puppy hungover is not ok but they are well cute, want to be your friend all the time, are super fun to have around and hoover up any food you drop on the floor. Raffa even got my flatmate a date.”

-Milly

Splinter

“Rats are cute, cheap, intelligent, affectionate and low maintenance like tiny dogs. Their cages can get smelly if you don’t clean them. You don’t have to do to cleaning stuff every day. They moult so you need a lint roller. They need a bigger cage than a hamster and they can be noisy at night. Better than a hamster, not as good as a dog. 7/10 pet.”

-Dallon

Rico

“Our rabbit is called Rico. It was one miserable Monday afternoon and we wanted something to uplift our spirits. It didn’t take us long to decide we needed a pet. A quick 20 minute taxi ride to pets at home and £160 later, we brought home little Rico.

“He has given us such great laughs and has brought us all together. He loves it when we pre with him in the room. It has at times been a hassle but nothing we couldn’t handle. To describe one specific event, last week we had health and safety room inspections and we had to cleverly distract them from entering the room where we keep Rico. We got away with it, and hope we continue to do so. We love you Rico.”

-Anonymous, Stoke Bishop

Kanye

“Kanye is a beloved member of our household and is the life and soul of the party.
He’s not quite his usual self these days though since the untimely death of my other fish, Kim. But he’s still a great guy.”

-Zoe

Charlotte

“This is my darling, Charlotte. I named it after my flatmate because she’s so spicy. I take it for walks on the Downs every Wednesday evening before sports socials. Homegrown chilli is love. Homegrown chilli is life.”

-William