Having a pet in your college apartment can be a rewarding experience! It’s also very common for college students to have pets now. However, it also comes with responsibilities. Here are some tips to help you navigate pet ownership while living in your college apartment:
1. Check the Pet Policy: Before getting a pet, or bringing one of your own, make sure to check your college apartment’s pet policy. Some apartments may have restrictions on the type, size, or number of pets allowed. There is also a possibility that your apartment only allows registered Emotional Support Animals (ESA) as well. Make sure to read the fine print so you understand all the guidelines and avoid any conflicts.
2. Create a Pet-Friendly Environment: Make your college apartment safe and comfortable for your pet. Remove any toxic plants, secure loose wires or cables that could potentially be dangerous and set up a small area for your pet’s food, water, and bed. If your pet doesn’t already have a full basket of toys, consider providing some chew toys for dogs and scratching posts for cats to keep them entertained and prevent them from damaging your belongings.
3. Plan for Pet Expenses: Unfortunately, pets also come with quite a few financial responsibilities. You’ll need to budget for food, veterinary care, grooming, and other necessary supplies. Make sure that you have an understanding of the costs involved and can comfortably afford them alongside your other college and living expenses.
4. Discuss and Set Expectations: Before bringing a pet into the apartment, have an open conversation with your roommates. Discuss everyone’s questions, preferences, and any potential issues related to having a pet. Ensure that everyone is on the same page and agrees on rules for the pet’s care, behavior, but mainly the shared living space.
5. Consider Outside Interactions: While there are a lot of animals who thrive staying indoors, other animals- dogs specifically- need daily exercise. If you have a dog in your apartment, there are a couple necessities to make sure of when going on walks. Doggy bags, water, and some treats are always helpful to have on the go. It also is a good idea to make sure your pet has a leash for their safety as well as following certain leash laws cities have in order.
Remember, having a pet can lead to years of memories, especially with your friends in college! Just make sure you are ready to provide proper care, attention, and love for your pet while balancing your everyday life and academics.