They are cute, cuddly, and never talk back; yes, I am talking about dogs. I know from experience that owning a dog is a lot of responsibility. This is not something college students should take lightly. I see time and time-again dogs up for adoption because they were too much to handle, they weren’t allowed in the apartment, etc. It breaks my heart to see these poor puppies up for adoption for these reasons, so I am begging you to first do your homework! Here is a guide that all collegiettes should follow before and during their time as pet owners:
Do your homework
First things first, does your lease allow pets? Unless you own your home, most lease contracts have a pet policy. Some allow pets, some have a weight requirement, and others have a policy regarding certain breeds. Once you know that you are allowed a pet, you should discuss it with your roommates. It is your responsibility to take care of your dog, not your roommates. Also, nobody wants their place ruined because their roommate couldn’t take care of their dog. Once you have the okay from your roommates and landlord, start researching pets in your area. Please start with adoption – there are so many sweet, loving dogs that need to be adopted. Start local, and then work your way out if you cannot find what you are looking for. In addition, do not rush the process of finding your pet. For some it could take days and for others it could take months; it is important to find a dog that is the right fit for you. Another thing to do is research what kind of dog is right for you. Are you active? Go for an energetic breed such as a Labrador or Siberian husky. Do you live in hot, mild, or cold climates? Huskies and shepherds would be great in colder temperatures because they have plenty of fur to keep them warm…not to mention, they love snow.
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Doggie Obedience
As the owner of an adopted 80 pound lab, I cannot stress this enough. With puppies, this is crucial because they are easiest to train at this age. Also, if you wait too long to train your pup, you may run into some real problems. My lab never learned to walk on a leash so he practically pulls my arm off every time we go to the greenway. Just because your puppy is small, cute, and hates the leash does not give you an excuse to skip leash training! This is vital for large breeds; the majority of dogs that are up for adoption come from homes that lacked proper training. Even though they are no longer puppies, they can still learn to sit, heal, and walk on a leash, they just need a little more time and patience. Dog obedience classes are offered everywhere for dogs of all ages and levels, just Google it!
Pick up after your dog
If I had a dollar for every time I saw someone walk away after watching their dog use the bathroom, I would be rich! Although this is not a glamorous part of dog-ownership, it is still important. There are bags all over the greenway, apartment complexes, and parks for this very reason. This is a responsibility that dog owners need to take into account before purchasing or adopting their pet. It may not be fun to pick up your dog’s poop, but it is a lot worse to step in it…especially if it is from a dog other than your own.
Keep them up to date on their shots, vaccines, vet visits
Pets need to be up to date on all of their shots, vaccines, and vet visits, just like humans. Dogs should receive DHPPs every 3-4 weeks beginning at 8 weeks followed by another round at 12 and 16 weeks. DHHP should be re-administered at 1 year and then every three years thereafter. The rabies vaccine should be administered annually. Bordetella is optional but if administered it should be done annually. Wormers are important too, especially in Boone where there is a prevalence of Deer feces.
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Give them their necessary exercise
Most dogs need daily exercise. Depending on the breed, some need more than others. If you have a very active dog, you should walk them at least once a day or do other physical activities such a fetch. When dogs are neglected their necessary exercise they can become destructive in the home.
Realize that all dogs are unique
Researching the breed is imperative to find out the common tendencies of your dog. With that said, it is important to realize that all dogs are individuals. This is good to know for your dog and for other dogs you may come in contact with. The best thing to do is to keep your dog on a leash when walking in public (most places require this), remember your dog’s quirks, and most importantly, ask the owner before letting your dog approach another. I say this from my own experience, not all labs love other dogs or people or children, etc.
Most of all…PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR DOG
Please, please pay attention to your dog at all times. This is for the safety of you and your canine, so make sure you have an eye on your dog no matter what.
Now that you have read these important guidelines, I hope you think twice before getting your next dog and make sure you are ready for the responsibility!
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