Whether it’s a cat, dog, bunny, turtle or rat — many college students have to leave their pets behind when they head to college.
It’s no easy task to say goodbye to your favorite furry friend, which is why some students choose to take their pets along or bring a new animal into their home at school.
Taking care of a pet also teaches college students a sense of responsibility.
But, being responsible for the well being of another living creature can be time-consuming and often expensive.
For University senior Caitlin McClincy, having a cat with her at school is worth the extra work.
“You’re never alone. There’s someone always there for you to cuddle with,” McClincy said.
University sophomore Janae Schmidlkofer, who doesn’t have a pet, said she wouldn’t want to care for and clean up after an animal at this point. The companionship would be nice though, she said.
There are many drawbacks to having a pet, such as the cost of food and vet bills, as well as finding someone to take care of the pet when going out of town, McClincy said.
It can also be a hassle finding a place to live that allows pets.
“I did have to move apartments because I had a cat and they didn’t allow them,” McClincy said.
University junior Shannon Smith said she would like to have a pet, but unfortunately she can’t because her landlord has a no-pet policy.
For a lot of students, rental policies against animals are a major factor in their decision to leave Fluffy and Buster at home.
University senior Taylor Haag had to get rid of two 6-week-old puppies that he had for only a few weeks because of his landlord’s policies.
Not only that, the puppies were a lot of work. They weren’t house-trained, plus it was difficult to keep an eye on both of them at once because their curiosities were always taking over.
“I lost a lot of sleep because they whined all night,” Haag said.
Although taking care of them was a challenge, Haag doesn’t regret having them with him at school.
“I wish we could have kept them,” he said.
To other students who are considering adopting a pet while they are in school, Haag said, “it’s a big commitment, so be prepared and do your homework.”
Not everyone can devote the time and resources that a pet needs to be happy and comfortable.
For those who can’t, but still miss having a cute little fluffball around, volunteering at a local humane society can be a great way to fill the void that the absence of your pet has left.
At the Greenhill Humane Society in Eugene, cat-lovers can volunteer as “cattery companions,” who pet kittens and give them the affection they need.
People who are bigger fans of canines can volunteer as dog-walkers.
Volunteering can also be a better option than owning your own pet because at least you won’t have to deal with overflowing litter boxes, out of control vet bills and loud barking whenever the mailman is down the block.
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