College students commonly assume they’re ready for the responsibility of caring for their own pet. During this stage of life, students become aware of how to care for themselves and manage their own life. Adopting a pet forces students to add a second life to their newly found responsibility. Some may be ready for this while others are most definitely not. Your job is to decide where you stand.
Cons of Having a Pet in College
Multiple disadvantages come with adopting a pet at the college stage of life. Pets depend on their owners for everything. They cannot feed themselves, let themselves out, or exercise on their own. They require constant care and attention, which means the owner must dedicate a reasonable amount of time to the animal each day to ensure the pet gets the proper care and exercise.
Having an animal in college will take up a decent amount of your time and energy, as well as your money. You must consider the costs of food, vet bills, bath supplies, pet deposits, grooming tools and more. You also give up the ability to stay out late, sleep over at a friend’s house, and go on weekend road trips. Before adopting a pet, stop and think if you’re willing to make these sacrifices.
Pros of Having a Pet in College
In some cases, the advantages override the disadvantages. Your pet will be your companion even on your worst days. Pets eliminate loneliness and provide unconditional love through their precious, forgiving faces. A bad day becomes a good day with the simple wag of a tail.
Not only do pets offer affection, but they also keep you active and entertained by dragging you to the local dog park and never failing to make you giggle throughout each day. Not to mention, they make for endless photo opps! Having a pet in college can transform your new college apartment into a home.
How to Find Pet-Friendly College Apartments
Keep in mind that your apartment complex may not even allow pets. At the very least, most communities require a pet fee. When searching on ForRentUniversity.com for an apartment near your college, make sure you choose Pet Friendly (or Dogs Allowed or Cats Allowed) under the MORE OPTIONS tab!
Educate yourself on the pros and cons of adopting a pet in college before you make the decision. All facts considered, if you feel you are mature and responsible enough to care for another life, then go for it! If you are not ready to give up certain college activities for an animal, then wait a few years. Your precious companion will still be waiting. Understanding the facts is the most crucial part of making such a mature decision.