Are you thinking about getting a dog in college?

If you grew up with dogs, getting one as a companion in college might be tempting. However, when you’re a college student, taking care of a dog is a lot of responsibility that you might not be prepared for.

Keep reading to learn some helpful tips and things you need to consider before you get a dog in college.

Nine Things To Know Before You Get A Dog In College

Getting a dog is a big decision that you shouldn’t take lightly. Before you get a dog, make sure you consider these nine things.

1. Check Your Lease Restrictions

Before you think of getting a dog, you need to make sure your housing situation allows pets. Most college dorm rooms do not allow pets, but some off-campus apartments might. Check your lease, because there is likely a pet deposit and monthly pet rent.

2. Consider Future Moving Plans

In addition to your current living situation, you need to think about future moving plans. Having a pet will restrict where you can move and who you can live with. For example, if none of your friends want to live with a dog, you might have to live alone.

3. Budget For a Dog

Owning a pet is expensive. Before you get a dog in college, you need to make sure you have enough money to pay for their expenses. You’ll also need an emergency savings fund in case there is an unexpected vet bill.

4. Ask Friends For Help

Having a dog is a lot of work. It’ll be helpful if you have friends or roommates that are willing to share some responsibility with you.

5. Think About Your Social Life

Dogs need to stick to a routine and need plenty of exercise. That routine might mean that you have less time with friends, and can’t be out of the house for an extended period.

6. Plan Ahead for Vacations

Spring break trips might no longer be an option if you get a dog. Dogs need to be boarded or left with a trusted pet sitter when you go out of town, which can cost a lot of money.

7. Set Up Dog Training

Taking proper care of a dog is a lot of work, and you’ll need to invest in some dog training to make sure you have a well-behaved pet. Dog training prices vary a lot, so make sure you do some research and factor that into your budget.

8. Consider Other Options

If you want a pet but aren’t sure you can make a lifelong commitment, you should consider fostering an animal instead. Check with local rescues or animal shelters to see if you qualify as a foster family. Fostering is sometimes a good alternative because you get to have a dog for a short time, so there are less time and financial commitments.

9. Have a Backup Plan

You likely don’t want to think about a scenario where you can’t take care of your dog, but you need to plan. Make sure you have a backup plan if you decide to move forward with getting a dog. Ask your parents if they’d be willing to take the dog, or make sure the rescue, animal shelter, or wherever you adopt the dog has a way to get the dog a new home if necessary.

Learn More About Caring for Pets In College

Taking care of a dog in college is no easy task, but it can be done. You just have to plan and make sure you have the resources to give your pet the best life possible. If you’d like to learn more about having pets in college, make sure you check out the rest of our website.