By Jara Reeder, Senior Reporter
I’m tired of seeing social media posts saying: “Looking to rehome my dog,” with sweet comments about how good the pet is. If it is so good, why get rid of it?
Many college students want a dog, but they don’t realize all it entails when they buy one. Yes, puppies are cute, but many students don’t realize they grow up.
Do you know how many times I wanted to get rid of my dog? But like my parents always said, once you start something, you commit to it.
I have my own child. The dog my fiancé and I got in our third year of college somewhat prepared us to become parents. Our dog had to be fed and groomed and let out to use the restroom. Like a newborn, you make sure they are fed, bathed and more.
I’m seeing so many posts about re-homing these dogs that college students got, more than likely because they were cute. But for some reason, in this generation, we don’t think about the consequences and sacrifices of huge commitments.
One year later, the puppy is now a grown preteen. When you want to have a night out, you have to make sure your dog has food and water and is able to be let outside. No more last-minute trips.
There are bonds that are built between you and your animal, and if you give the dog away, it will be confused and forced to adapt to a new environment. It will think you abandoned it.
When you get a dog, you spend about $50 $70 on dog food and $70 to $100 on grooming. And depending on how much you care for the dog, you have to accommodate for treats and toys.
I believe that college students should reconsider when wanting a new puppy. Wait until you’re financially ready for one and able to care for it when it’s older.