Most of you probably saw/experienced Taus for Paws this past week on the lawn. I personally think this is one of the better ideas for a philanthropy event, as it appeals to such a wide range of people- seriously, who doesn’t want to play with puppies??? I also have a feeling that a lot of y’all probably started thinking about adopting a dog after attending the event. It’s hard not to get sucked in by puppies’ adorable little faces and the promise of your off-campus apartment next year. I’ve been lucky enough to have my three-year-old poodle, Milo (pictured below), with me on campus for the past couple years. But I’ve learned from experience that having a dog at college is HARD WORK, and while the benefits far outweigh the negatives, I believe that it’s not for everyone. So before you go adopting a puppy on a whim, read my tips below to make sure you’re ready to be a dog-owner. Hint: it’s basically like being a parent.
1) Puppies are cute, but they are more needy than your drunk best friend at 2AM.
Everyone wants to adopt a puppy. But even if you’re the most responsible one in your friend group, you probably aren’t ready to adopt a puppy and manage a full course-load. Puppies need to be taken out every 2-3 hours, they’re constantly making a mess, they require at least an hour of training a day, and they need to be monitored pretty much 24/7. If you REALLY want a puppy, I recommend adopting one over the summer when you have a more flexible schedule and have your parents around to help you train him/her. However, adopting a one-year-old dog that is already house-trained and leash-trained will save you SO much time- and they’re just as cute, I promise! The dog pictured below is up for adoption at Proverbs 12:10- check him out here!
2) Even older dogs take up a lot of your time.
My dog is almost three, but I still need to spend a ton of time each week making sure he’s healthy and happy. I take him to the dog park at least twice a week for an hour and on long walks at least three times a week. I need to take him out three times a day, which means that I need to make sure my schedule allows for a big break in the afternoon. Also, I need to figure out when/how to take him out at night if I’m planning on going out, which is always a fun time (read: buzzkill). Sometimes he gets sick and needs to go to the vet, and I’ve had to miss class more than once because of that. Of course, it’s unexcused because no one cares about your dog, even though taking him to the vet is an extremely legitimate reason for not attending class. I also need to take him to regular grooming appointments and worry about boarding him when I leave for breaks. Every dog is a huge time commitment, whether you get a puppy or an adult dog. But if you love them as much as I love my dog, all of that time could not be more worth it! Just make sure you have a reasonable schedule and aren’t too involved on campus, or you’ll literally drive yourself crazy trying to balance your responsibilities.
3) Dogs cost a LOT of money.
Ah yes, the money issue. Dogs cost a TON of money. Puppies cost even more. And this doesn’t even count the initial expense to purchase your new best friend, which is pretty low if you adopt (which you absolutely should btw #adoptdontshop). Just a few things to keep in mind that cost a considerable amount of money: vet bills (seriously so expensive- even worse if it’s an emergency vet bill), dog food (surprisingly pricey), grooming, boarding, new leashes & gear, a pet carrier if you want to take him on a plane, plus the MASSIVE amount of money you need to pay as a deposit if you have a dog and are renting your apartment. Fun times. As I said, though, if you love your dog, spending all of this money will hardly seem like a question because he/she is so worth it to you!
By no means do I want to turn people away from adopting a dog. Having Milo here has been the absolute best thing for me- he kept me sane during the winter and puts a smile on my face every time I come home. Plus, when I’m feeling really lonely, there’s nothing like cuddling with a fuzzy little creature who loves you and depends on you. It’s the best feeling in the world, at least, as of yet- I’m sure having a kid will be pretty cool one day, too. But having a dog is big responsibility, and I would hate for someone to adopt one and then realize after a few weeks that they can’t take care of him/her. So before adopting, take some time to think about your future (even five years down the line when you’re moving to a new city) and really make sure that you have room in your life for a dog. If so, head to Nashville Humane, Proverbs 12:10, or Love at First Sight and adopt away!!!