Pros & Cons of Having a Pet at College
Whether you grew up with a family pet, or you’re considering adopting an animal for the first time, it’s not unheard of for college students to own pets. Pet ownership in off campus Clemson apartments does come with certain responsibilities and considerations, though. So, before acquiring an animal to share your apartment, it’s worth reviewing the pros and cons of having a pet at college.
Benefits of Pet Ownership in Clemson Student Apartments
In Clemson student apartments have pet policies that tenants must follow. In communities where animals are allowed, residents have to pay a one-time pet fee, but for some students, the cost of living with their animals is justified by the benefits of pet ownership.
Many Forms of Companionship
Most off campus apartments near Clemson University have either two or four bedrooms, so students usually live with roommates. But when the company of roommates isn’t available, pets can provide their owners with a sense of companionship.
Homework Buddy
As you work on homework, a pet laying by your side can be a comforting presence that allows you to feel relaxed and focus better on the task at hand.
Exercise Partner
An animal that requires exercise outdoors, such as a dog, can accompany you on walks, giving you a reason to experience some fresh air and sunlight before heading to class or resuming a study session.
Ice Breaker
While you’re walking with your pet outdoors or shopping for pet supplies at the local market, you may encounter fellow pet owners with whom you can strike up conversations and bond over your mutual interest in animals.
Disadvantages of Collegiate Pets
When classes end each day and students head off campus housing near Clemson University is commonly their destination. But many residents choose not to have pets waiting for them at home because of the disadvantages pets can pose for college life.
Limited Options for Housing
Finding appropriate housing near campus is imperative for students, as the right apartment allows for a comfortable lifestyle and a short commute to class. But even though off campus housing can allow pets, there are still limitations on the species of animals permitted. In general, petite dogs and cats and other small animals, such as amphibians, fish, hamsters, or birds, are suitable pets for apartments, yet student apartments typically only permit certain breeds and sizes of dogs and cats. Consequently, the type of pet you own can limit the housing options available to you.
Responsibilities of College Life
The lives students lead can be full of activities and school-related duties, but the demands of caring for pets adequately may interfere with the responsibilities of the college lifestyle.
School Duties
Considering the amount of time you could spend outside of the apartment as a student, including attending classes or studying in the library, it’s possible you won’t have enough free time to care for your pet. To give a pet adequate attention, you may thus have to deduct time from other important responsibilities.
Apartment Messes
While a student apartment is plenty of space for you, a pet can accumulate pent up energy from being in the same environment all day. As a result, your pet may act erratically and create messes in the apartment, which you have to take time away from studying to clean up.
Noise Levels
Rest is sacrosanct for students, as sleeping an adequate number of hours each night is vital to maintaining focus and productivity during the day. But a pet can cause noisy nighttime interruptions to your sleep. Not to mention, the sounds pets make can prove disruptive to neighbors and may result in noise complaints.
