Imagine going back home after a long day of school and being greeted by a dog who’s so excited to see you he can’t stop jumping or a cat ready to snuggle up on the couch with you. With the demands of classes, attempts at having a social life, costs of living, and more, pet companionship can be a source of joy in an otherwise stressful time. For some, however, pets can add more stress on top of school for several reasons.
Wesley Janicki, employee at Family Pet Animal Hospital, recommends “a cat aged somewhere in between about four or five years old. That way, the cat is most likely already vaccinated but not so old that it may start to have serious health problems that you cannot afford to take care of” (Bleadon, 2023). As with many things in life, there are both pros and cons associated with pet ownership.
Pros to pet ownership
Combat loneliness – pets can help students who are away from family feel less alone.
Encourages exercise – having a dog encourages physical activity by going on walks and playing.
Establishes a routine – pets can help establish a daily routine which can be beneficial in an otherwise chaotic time of life.
Cons to pet ownership
Cost – food, vet visits, grooming, toys, and other supplies can add up quickly for students on a tight budget.
Distracting – pets tend to require attention and care, which can cause distractions while studying.
Responsibility – pets are a long-term commitment, so students really need to evaluate if having a pet can fit in with their lifestyle.
When considering pet adoption, make sure to evaluate these pros and cons, as well as assessing your financial situation to ensure you have the means necessary to care for your pet. Having a pet can be a wonderful experience and really help you during your academic career.
This is my cat Kahlua doing her favorite thing – laying down on my shoulder.
Bleadon, J. (2023, February 12). Are college students responsible enough for pet ownership? UWIRE Text, 1. https://go.gale.com/ps/i.dop=STND&u=southcollege&id=GALE|A736861032&v=2.1&it=r&sid=ebsco&asid=603abb98
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