Having a puppy is a full-time job. It can be hard to handle taking care of a pet while balancing classes, your social life, work, etc. Before adopting or bringing your dog from home, make sure you have somewhere the dog can live, as dorms don’t allow animals unless they are emotional support animals. I waited to have a dog till I was living in off-campus housing, but that can get you stuck paying a $200+ pet deposit. Keeping your dog on a schedule is important too! Try to feed your puppy at the same time every day. Taking your dog on walks every day, and trips to the dog park can be a great way to let your dog run off some of that puppy energy.
Image by Arkadyia Mills
 I recently brought my 6-year-old dog, Max, from my home to Nacogdoches to live with me and let me just say it’s not easy! Having a dog is a huge commitment. Make sure you have enough money to cover expenses that will come from your furry friend. Even though owning a dog is challenging at times, the happiness I feel every time I get home and see Max is SO worth it! So, remember: be mindful that you are this animal’s parent and you are responsible for them being healthy and happy!