Owning a dog in college isn't a thing you can say to be cool amongst your friends. A dog is basically a child. They need to be loved every day and taken care of as if they were your baby. They look forward to seeing you come home every day after class and walk through the door. Having a dog in college can be hard, but it is also filled with good memories and fun times. By having a dog in college, you learn things that will apply to your future and theirs.
1. Your dog is more than just a pet.
When owning a pet in college, you have to put their needs above yours. They aren't a trophy you can show off; they are an animal that constantly needs love. Your dog is basically a human child in a different form. They need love, care and commitment in order for them to be happy every day.
2. Always lift the blinds so that they can see out the window.
If your dog likes to look out of the windows when you're gone, lift the blinds to avoid any chewing, especially in apartments. You want to avoid the chewed blinds so that you don't have to pay for it when you move out of the apartment. It's also a safe way to ensure they have some kind of distraction while you're gone -- if they're looking out the window, there's automatically a lesser chance they will go searching for your shoes as chew toys.
3. A good hour outside every day is crucial when living in apartments.
Living in an apartment can be rough, especially if your dog was used to having a yard. Going outside for an hour or so every day is essential for both of you. It gets them out in the sunshine, where they can follow their nose around the park until their heart is content, and you have a happy, healthy pup.
4. If you're going out on the town, a good long walk beforehand will help your dog sleep while you're out.
If you're the type of person who likes to go out and hit a couple of bars on the weekend, make sure your pup is set for the night. I learned that a good long walk or an hour in the park tires them out, and a hearty dinner for them sets them up for bedtime. If you're the type of person who feels guilty leaving your animal, this is a great way to ease those feelings.
5. Learn to be more time- and budget-conscious.
By becoming time- and budget-conscious, you learn to save a lot of money stress. Putting money aside in case of emergency can cover vet bills or buy much-needed dog food. You also eventually become familiar with working around your schedule to accommodate your dog's needs. Their needs are more important than yours most of the time, and it would be smart to know that early on.
Being a dog-parent in college isn't always easy, especially with any classes or jobs, but it's always worth it. These tips just make you realize it sooner.
