ALISON CUEVAS

People often dream about the day when they will own their own home to get a new pet. Students living off campus experience the freedom of having a place where they can house a furry companion while others opt to avoid another responsibility.

 

In weighing the options, animal lovers consider the difference in time commitments between one pet and another. For example, a cat doesn’t have to be taken out so and usually eats at its own pace so it would require less concentrated time then a dog.

 

“Basically I always knew that I wanted to get a pet, it just came down to what kind of pet, how big it was, and the amount of care and attention it was going to need,” said Junior, Katelyn Toms. “It was an easier decision with a cat, because I could get a kitten and not have to worry about baby-ing it like a puppy would need.”

 

The Pulaski County Humane Society gives upperclassman priority when considering college students as candidates to adopt.

 

“Sometimes freshman are still trying to adjust to school and being away from home for the first time,” said executive director of PCHS Candice Simmons.

 

Dog owners walking across campus are frequently stopped by other students who want to pet their dogs. Many students who grew up around animals miss their companions when they go off to college.

 

“My grades have improved since getting a dog in college,” Senior, Emma Cowan said. “ I grew up around animals so I felt lost and had anxiety without a pet.”

 

According to the Help Guide online,owning a dog creates a healthier lifestyle. The increase in exercise, companionship and structure that is added to a routine day can reduce anxiety and provide a stress relief.

 

“I like having an animal around because it’s very therapeutic,” said Senior, Rachel Durkan and owner of a young Beagle dog. “Grover loves to cuddle and he cheers me up even on my worst days”

 

The Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine hosts a popular therapy dog program. The program features dog events throughout the semester as students get busier and final exams get closer.

 

College students that cannot handle the responsibility of balancing school and owning a pet often give their pets to the local animal shelters. The US Humane Society suggest that students do their homework because a pet with needs the student cannot meet will only add stress to their already busy lives.  

 

“College kids will always want dogs but not everyone should have them,” said Durkan.