Having a dog in college isn’t easy, especially if you get a puppy. However, the companionship is one of the most rewarding, mutually beneficial relationships we, as humans, can experience.Here are just a few ways having a dog enhances your college experience.

1. You learn a new level of responsibility

Food, preventatives, vet visits, baths, [trying] to exhaust their energy, and the dreaded potty training phase. Everyone warned you, but you’re probably still a bit surprised at the level of care it takes some days. It’s a learning curve, but when you finally get the hang of it, it feels pretty darn good.

2. You always have plans

There’s always someone waiting at home who will be absolutely thrilled to either Netflix and chill or venture outside and explore with you.

3. Better yet, you always have an excuse to NOT have plans

“As fun as spending two hours getting ready to stay out until 2 a.m. for the third night in a row sounds, it’s been a busy week, and my pup really needs some attention. Rain check?”

4. Sleeping through your alarm is a thing of the past

You’ll never miss a test or be late to your internship again because your typical morning now starts between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. You hated it at first, but now that you’re used to the routine, it’s nice to start your day with a quiet walk and enough time for breakfast.

5. You get 24/7 access to free therapy with zero judgment

Venting to your dog is kind of like eating an entire pint of Ben & Jerry’s in bed, but it’s free and comes without the guilt and stomachache. Plus, the cuddles are literally unmatched.

6. You now have mandatory breaks built into your day

Caring for a pet means you’re forced to regularly step away from the crazy to focus on something positive. Even during the most busy, stressful times, you have no choice but to stay active, which often relieves stress and has a strange way of putting life into perspective.

7. You experience true love

Let’s face it. There are very few, if any, humans out there who can send you into a total rage, while also making you want to Snapchat their shenanigans and give them kisses all in one simultaneous moment of overwhelming, catastrophic cuteness.

These are just a few highlights of the many reasons being a dog parent while you’re in college is totally worth the extra work. The list is honestly endless, and the pros outweigh the cons by far. And, since Christmas is right around the corner, this is the perfect time to remind your parents of the puppy they never got you as a child…

As a side note, “adopt don’t shop” is a great motto, but it’s not for everyone. However, here are some great resources if you’re seriously considering adoption in the RDU area:

Wake County Animal Shelter http://www.wakegov.com/pets/adoptions/Pages/defaul...

SPCA of Wake County https://spcawake.org