One of the best parts about being in college is getting to embrace all the freedom that comes with it. You're on your own, which means you can decide where you go, what you do and how you spend your money. It's exhilarating, especially when you feel that your dreams are finally within your reach.
Many college students dream about one day getting to bring home their own dog. Whether you want to rescue a pup or buy one from a breeder, getting your own four-legged friend is a big responsibility to consider, especially for a full-time college student.
Before rushing off to the local shelter when it advertises adoption discounts, make sure you're going to be the best dog mom or dad to your future pup.
Read on for some things you should consider before bringing home a dog while you're in college. They'll help you decide whether or not now is the best time for you to get a dog.
1. Create lots of play time.
Dogs love to spend time with their humans, so if you bring one home, you're going to have to spend more time with them than you might realize. There are outdoor potty breaks you'll have to work into your routine, plus half hour walks so your pup can stretch its legs.
Most college students have roommates, and if you do, you may be tempted to trust them with ensuring your dog is entertained. After you bring your new pet home, they'll want to love your furry friend. That won't last forever, though — and ultimately, your dog isn't their responsibility. If you can't spend time playing with your dog and walking it, you shouldn't bring it home until your routine lightens up.
2. Always be by their side.
Life is busy, so you won't always be home and ready to hang out with your dog. That's OK, so you shouldn't feel guilty if you're picturing yourself leaving them in the morning so you can go to class. Ideally, dogs should never be left alone for more than six to eight hours, with potty breaks every four to six hours.
One way to make sure your dog doesn't feel lonely is to have a pet sitter come in once or twice a day, especially if you have a class schedule that keeps you away for long periods of time. If you don't have the money, try to figure out how you can run home to let your dog out to socialize for a bit.
Another way to make sure your dog is doing OK while you're in class is to set up a pet cam. This is especially helpful for puppies, who will bark, cry and chew on things when left alone. Pet cams allow you to talk to your dog and may even be helpful for alleviating doggy anxiety.
3. Have emergency money saved.
GiphyNo matter what age your future dog is when you bring them home, you're going to have to take them to the vet at one point or another. Puppies go in regularly for shots during their first year, then yearly after that. Sometimes, accidents happen, and you might have to rush them to an emergency clinic when you least expect it.
To be prepared for any emergency vet trips, you might have to set aside at least $1,000 to $2,000. No breeder or adoption clinic will require this number to be met, but not being able to pay for a health service your dog needs will be doing both of you a disservice if you ever found yourself at the check-out counter of a vet's clinic.
Being in college is freeing, but there are still limitations to consider before getting your very own dog. Time and money are the biggest obstacles for students looking to adopt, so be sure you can meet all your future dog's needs before bringing them home.
Even if you have to wait until after graduation, you'll be glad you did once you can both rest easily, knowing the future is bright.
