With the back-to-school season in full swing, college and university students are packing up their belongings and heading out to a new chapter.

A recent TikTok video posted by @connor.westbrock revealed a car filled with what the student was taking with him back to college. The seats were folded down to fit everything, leaving no room for anyone else to come for the ride.

The TikToker felt like he had everything he needed, but he couldn't shake the thought one very important part of his life was missing. The overlay text on the video reads: "All packed for college but feel like I'm forgetting something..."

As he turned away from the car and toward the house, the answer was revealed: his dog wasn't coming with him.

The Labrador looked up at him with eyes full of confusion and heartbreak. She could tell something was happening, but she didn't quite understand why his belongings were packed in the car.

The look his Labrador gave him would be enough to make anyone burst into tears, but then the dog had to add to the guilt. She stood up on her back legs begging to come with him. A frown showed across her face. All she wanted was to stay by his side.

On top of the stress that comes with moving, school and starting a new chapter in life, students have to say goodbye to the familiarity of their homes. They're on their own without friends, family and their fur besties. And for many, it can cause mental health issues.

A Washington State University study looked into how students might also be struggling with separation anxiety. Part of the study's findings were that leaving a childhood pet at home while going off to college can increase separation anxiety symptoms. Thankfully, technology and social media keep students and their pets connected, even if they're millions of miles apart.

TikTokers React

The TikTok video quickly went viral, reaching over 5.5 million views, 1.5 million likes and 1,746 comments as of Wednesday. The clip became personal to viewers as many have experienced the same heartbreak of leaving their family pet behind.

"Bro college was the WORST time to have a family pet. Every time I would visit home, they were noticeably older and it killed me every time," commented a TikTok user.

Another added: "This is why I'm scared to move out. I'll miss my pup so much."

Someone suggested: "Petition to have colleges let us take our dogs with us."

Newsweek reached out to @connor.westbrock via TikTok for additional information.

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