If you have a pet back in your hometown, odds are that you miss them and wish they could just come to school with you. I mean after all our pets are more than just pets to us. They are part of the family and mean more to us than people without pets would realize. So what do you do while you’re in college and missing your pet like crazy? Why not just get one yourself, problem solved! While this sounds like a great idea, there is a lot to think about. There are a couple of positives and negatives that you need to consider before you make such a big decision.
1. Cost- pets are usually not cheap. Just buying an animal, such as a dog, alone can be a couple of hundred dollars. Then add on vets visits, food, supplies, it all adds up pretty quickly. If you have a job and can financially support a pet and you really want a pet, it might be a great idea for you!
2. Forever companion- The relationship between an owner and a pet is something that is irreplaceable. There is unconditional love that you cannot get anywhere else. Having a pet can instantly make you happier and actually relieve a lot of stress. If you are looking for a companion, a pet might be the right decision for you!
3. Responsibility- Having a pet, especially a dog, is pretty much like having a child. They depend on you for everything and you are completely responsible for the life of another living thing.
4. Time commitment- School can be stressful enough, now add the responsibility of something else to take care of that is completely dependent on you to do everything for them. If you are not around a lot because school or work, then maybe having a high demanding pet such as a dog isn’t the best idea for you.
5. Flexible hours- Being able to be home with a pet is very important. If you are not able to stay home at least a couple of hours EVERY day to be with your pet, it might not be the right time for you. You see college students that have pets and they are stuck in cages all day, which is unfair to the animal. Make sure if you are considering a pet then make sure your hours can be flexible so you can spend as much time at home with your pet.
If you have read through this and realized that the pros outweigh the cons, then it is very possible that getting a pet can be right for you!