For some Eugeneans, spring afternoons in the park playing Frisbee, evening walks through the neighborhood and morning jogs along the trail are more than enjoyable exercise: they are great way to spend time with a pet dog.
But would-be dog and pet owners must consider the cost of caring for animals, the time required to spend with pets and property-management company restrictions before purchasing a desired pet.
Pets come in all sizes, shapes and personalities. Although dogs and cats are the most popular, birds, fish, hamsters, gerbils, ferrets and reptiles are also animal favorites, according to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
“I always wanted a dog to hang out with and go on walks and to the park,” University junior Emily Carter said. “The biggest benefit is just having a companion who loves you unconditionally (and is) happy to go outside and play.”
Pets can provide a reason to increase exercise and enjoy outdoor activities. They also help decrease blood pressure and cholesterol as well as relieve feelings of loneliness by offering unwavering love and companionship, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
Senior Kambra Clifford said her two Persian cats are always there for her.
“When I’m stressed or having a bad day, they are so entertaining,” she said. “There’s nothing better than waking up to sunshine and realizing that they’re both lounging right next to me.”
Approximately 45 million Americans own at least one dog, according to a 2003 survey by the American Pet Association. Nearly 77 million households own at least one cat.
Thirty-nine percent of U.S. pet owners display photographs of pets in their homes, and 16 percent carry pictures in their wallets.
Potential pet owners need to consider both the amount of time they can devote to their new furry or feathered friend and the impact a new pet will have on domestic life. Will they have time to walk a dog or have a place to store a litter box? Will a talking bird disrupt family life or neighbors?
Like people, pets have basic needs. They become lonely and distressed if left alone for long periods of time. There are puppies and dogs that chew on everything. Cats need a scratching post and room to play and lounge. Fish require fresh water. Some reptiles need special lights and extra heat.
Pets often need specialized foods, vitamins and medicine. Regular veteriarian visits are also required to ensure good overall health.
Food, treats, toys and miscellaneous items factor into costs as well.
Clifford said she spends about $20 a month in food and nearly $100 a year on veterinarian visits.
“When you look into their cute little faces, you realize that the money and time you have to devote to them is so worth it,” she said.
Although there aren’t many pet-friendly apartments around campus, there are a few that will accommodate such pet requests. A link on the University’s Web site features a chart showing the specifications of several nearby apartment complexes.
The ASUO office recommends asking previous renters if the landlord is pet-friendly and checking the “pets” box in online listings.
Restrictions at pet-friendly apartments and cottages vary. Some limit animal occupancy to aquarium fish while others allow up to 80-pound dogs as long as they are not aggressive breeds. Each apartment complex may have different requirements. Von Klein Property Management allows cats at several of its sites. Bell Real Estate allows small pets at some locations, as does Stewardship Properties.
Clifford said she paid $200 per cat in deposit when she moved into her apartment. Half is refundable provided the apartment is left in good shape.
HSC Real Estate offers a refundable pet security deposit of $200 but has a few dog breed restrictions prohibiting mastiffs, pit bulls and German Shepherds.
County and city restrictions may also apply to pets.
Dogs need to be on leashes when not on private property or at official dog parks, according to Lane County Animal Control. Owners are responsible for picking up solid waste left outdoors or they will be fined.