Owning a dog in college, yes, or no?

BY COPELAND WELCH / Multimedia Journalist

Owning a dog in college can add extra responsibility to your plate but it can also be a very rewarding experience.

Do you recall being a kid and asking your parents, what it felt like every day, if you could have a dog, or even just a pet goldfish? 

I sure do, and while most think a pet can be too much responsibility for a kid, some even think it’s too much responsibility for a college student.

Although there may be some truth to that argument, owning a dog in college allows you to have a built-in best friend and, in my case, a “vacuum cleaner” that is always waiting for me to drop some food on the floor.

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes but I have an Australian Shepherd. She is always waiting for me when I get home from class, and she makes me feel less lonely at my house when my roommates aren’t at home.

I am sure everyone is a little bit guilty of not getting enough sunshine or exercise occasionally. Dogs are a great excuse to get some movement and some fresh air because, most of the time, they are always willing to go on a walk.

For me, bringing a dog to college was a way to help me feel less homesick and meet new friends. I have had my dog for 12 years so bringing her to college with me was like bringing a little piece of home, and there is a sense of security and comfort in that. 

Having my dog at college also helped me to get outside of my dorm room, take her to the dog park or even just to an outdoor table to do some homework and enjoy a nice afternoon on campus.

Although there are some nights when feeding my dog seems like just another thing on my to-do list or taking her to the groomer is just another chunk of my paycheck, she brings happiness and light to my life when I am stressed from schoolwork or just need something to cheer me up.