We all know how much we love and adore our furry friends, but what happens when you just can’t bear to leave Fido at home? Should you consider adopting your own pet and introducing it to your college lifestyle? HC has all the major pros and cons to help you make your decision.
Pets can offer loving companionship.You have a cuddle buddy at all times. There will always be someone to be little spoon (or big spoon, depending on how fluffy Fido is) at night. Pets make for great company if you’re spending hours locked in your room cramming for that test you should’ve started studying for earlier. Your little fur baby will be a constant companion, especially if you’re sharing a single room or apartment.
They can also be sources of distraction, as well.Constant companionship can come with a threshold. Sometimes you really do need your space…or the pen that your cat refuses to stop swatting around the floor like it’s the best toy ever. Pets can be a huge distraction if they’re not tame study buddies, or if you would rather spend your time pampering them instead of actually doing homework. Sharing a bathroom with your pet and your roommates can also be problematic, as everyone seems to want the facilities the second you decide to step in for a shower.
Writer Keara Hozella’s cat Sophie enjoys being the center of her owner’s attention.
Pets will always be there to lend an ear.Cats and dogs are built-in therapists without the cost. You can whine to Princess about the awful day you’re having without judgment, and cry into his fur about how “capital-S” Stressed you are this semester. Pets are the perfect confidantes as well. Princess will never tell your crush all of the embarrassing little things you noticed about them in class last week.
Their love might be free but their food and vet care is definitely not.Pets may start out as free, but they don’t stay that way. Taking care of your pet is huge commitment, and one that should not be taken lightly. Good care includes regular veterinarian visits, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering, all of which cost money that may not be feasible within a college student budget. Don’t forget that food, toys, medications, and waste disposal options (whether that’s a litter box or a poop-bag dispenser) can’t be bought with the love you feel for Buster, either.
You will never run out of Instagram worthy photos.Pets give you an excuse to be absolutely crazy about them. You can snap a million pictures and post them to Instagram without a filter for immediate favorites. It’s like you can hear other people’s “awhs” through your phone screen. They can also reassure your parents that you’re responsible enough to take care of another being without having them beg you for a grandchild. It’s always a good thing when you can take pride in how well you’ve managed your schoolwork, social life, and pet’s life on top of your own.
You may be breaking the rules for Fido.You may not actually be allowed to have a pet in your apartment/dorm, so keeping Milo a secret can be an anxiety-ridden affair. Rushing home hoping that your pet didn’t tear apart your room or have an accident while you were gone isn’t exactly the most pleasant thing on the planet, either. Pets can also make a lot of noise, so unless your walls are soundproof, I’d suggest leaving toys out and the T.V. on to keep them occupied and their noise level low.
Although there are drawbacks to having (or hiding) a pet at college, the benefits may just outweigh the detriments. Having an instant best friend who’s always excited to see you when you arrive home is one of the best feelings in the world.