A cautionary guide to read before adopting
Four-legged friends bring joy into life and offer numerous benefits to their owners. The appeal of getting a pet while pursuing one’s studies is tempting, but making this decision isn’t the best for all students.
Animals are expensive. Even if you get a dog or cat from the street or at a low cost from the animal shelter, it does not mean the bills won’t pile up. Yearly vaccinations and check-ups can be costly for a college student, not to mention any surgeries that, heaven forbid, the animal may need. To be in the horrible position of not being able to afford the right treatments for a pet is not a situation anyone should be in.
The consistent cost of food for an animal can also take a substantial toll on a paycheck. Even the cheapest food can add up quickly, but of course, it is better to feed pets higher-quality food, which comes at a higher price. Being able to care for a dog or cat in the way they need while struggling financially creates stress for the student and harm for the animal.
Living situations during college can be erratic. Many apartments that students can afford are not pet-friendly, considerably narrowing down the options for where students can live. While many will circumvent these rules, it is not right to keep a dog in a place where it is unable to play or run outside.
And, this goes without saying, dorms are terrible places to keep animals. Not only are they not allowed, but most pets need more room than a dorm would allow.
Pets can live for a long time. Many students don’t know where they will be living in a matter of years or months, and adding to this, transporting a pet and finding a place that suits their needs can create new stress in the already stressful post-graduate life.
Even if cost is not a concern for a student, pets still need exercise and mental stimulation. It is, of course, not impossible for a student to adequately provide for a pet, but making sure they are constantly walked or played with during finals week may not be the proper decision for students to make.
This is not to say that no student can provide a happy and loving home for a pet, but it is a warning for those considering taking the step. Students should take a moment, do research, and make sure they are ready to provide a good life to a new pet.
