College life can be stressful, hectic, and exciting, many students find companionship in a furry friend during this time. With all the demands of college life, a full-time student schedule, work, friends, clubs, and activities is there enough time and resources left to care for a pet properly? Here’s a look at the pros and cons of being a pet owner while juggling academic responsibilities.
Pros of college pet ownership:
Pets can provide a great deal of companionship for lonely college students. They can help grow students into adults by giving them responsibility, caring for a living thing, financial responsibility, time commitment, and coordinating care if they will be gone for long periods. Caring for a pet encourages students to establish routines and develop a sense of responsibility, which can enhance time management skills. Pets can also be a great source of comfort and stress relief. Having a pet that loves you unconditionally and relies on you can bring so much comfort to students who may be lonely during these challenging years. “I think that being a pet owner is a lot easier than people think. I have cats and they are super chill, one of my cats is a registered Emotional Support Animal and she helps me a lot. Being a pet owner not only gives me something to look forward to when I come home from class but also greatly improves my mental health,” says Mollie Mefferd a student pet owner. 
Cons of college pet ownership:
On the flip side, many college students are not qualified nor prepared to own and care for an animal. Pets require time and attention. Balancing classes, homework, and social life can be challenging, and some students may struggle to find enough time for their pets.
There is also a large financial aspect to consider when owning a pet. Paying for not only food, traveling, and housing needs but also medical expenses that may arise throughout their life. Owning a pet could also make it more difficult for students to find housing. Many college dorms and apartments have strict pet policies. Finding pet-friendly accommodations can be difficult, and students might face penalties for having unauthorized pets. Senior Daylen Mitchell states “I’ve always wanted to own a dog but realized that my college years were not the right time for me to do so. I am glad I have got to enjoy my four years here not tied down by anything. I do want to be a pet owner one day but I think it is smart to wait until a more stable time in my life to do so.”
In conclusion, having a pet during college can be a great way to find companionship and relieve stress. Pets can bring joy and comfort, making tough days a little easier. However, it’s important for students to think about the time, money, and responsibility that come with taking care of a pet. Whether or not an individual is ready for the responsibility and privilege of pet ownership is a very personal decision. I encourage everyone to take the time needed to make the right decision for themselves.
