Going to college might be a challenge. During this difficult time, many students turn to get a pet for support. Indeed, animals may be a great source of joy and company. This means that it’s a good idea to get a pet that’s comfortable with college students. It’s just a matter of knowing which pets are suitable for college dorms.
Easy Pets to Take Care of in College
In terms of a college pet, what are the most significant qualities to seek for? Dogs, cats, and other large animals are often not permitted on campus at many colleges and universities. As an added bonus, having a pet that you don’t have to worry about taking care of while you’re away at school is a lovely luxury.
Frogs
Compared to rabbits, guinea pigs, cats, and dogs, the frog is a fun and low-maintenance pet.
It is not necessary for the frog to go for long walks or runs or to be mentally stimulated, but it does require frequent feeding. Their enclosure is meticulously maintained. The frog’s sensitive skin means that regular snuggle sessions are out of the question.
College students love frogs as pets because of their calming effects. This “exercise” doesn’t have to happen on a set timetable, and your pet won’t meow or bark at you to get out of their cage.
Prior to purchasing any frog, it’s necessary that you conduct some research on the species you’re interested in keeping. It’s best to get an American green tree frog because it’s easy to take care of and only lives for two to six years on average. This may seem like a little detail, but it’s an excellent quality to have when you’re unsure of what your post-college plans will be.
F
Turtle
Having a turtle as a pet is a low-maintenance option that works well for families and students alike.
When it comes to caring for turtles, you don’t need to go overboard. They don’t need to be walked like dogs. Cats, on the other hand, want constant attention. They do, however, require a clean tank, which means additional work.
That said, a turtle can flourish in a small to medium-sized tank. Aquariums can be pricey, so consider purchasing a used tank from a thrift store or animal shelter instead.
Although the turtle’s start-up expenditures may be a little high, the long-term costs are cheap. The amount of food required by them is insufficient (especially when compared to an 80-pound German Shepherd). Because they aren’t picky eaters and are known for being opportunistic at mealtime, you can be more flexible about when to feed them if you’re attending college full time.
Turtles are a great addition to a student’s dorm room or apartment because they are so fascinating to watch.
In contrast to frogs, several types of turtles and tortoises can live for decades or even centuries. Do your homework before getting a pet and be prepared to commit to it for the long haul!
Fish
For college students, a fish is an excellent choice because of its many benefits. To brighten up a student dorm or apartment, they’re an excellent choice. Most schools allow fish even if they don’t allow pets. Having one in your flat is a terrific idea because they are so low-maintenance and don’t do any damage. College students who don’t have the time or energy to take care of a dog or cat may find that keeping a fish tank (or numerous tanks) is the perfect alternative. One or more of the following fish would be a good addition to your home:
- Tetras: They do best in a school of five or more
- Goldfish: Can be kept alone
- Betas: Males must be kept alone while females can live together
Hamsters
It’s possible that a furry friend is just what you’re looking for. A hamster would be your best bet. These kinds of animals make wonderful friends for college students. As a result of their small stature, they can easily fit into tight quarters and don’t necessitate a very rigorous diet. Keep Hamsters occupied by providing them with toys. Attractions like roller coasters and tunnels are among the most popular.
Dogs, in particular, are highly emotional and will suffer from depression if left alone for an extended period of time. They aren’t prohibitively expensive to buy and maintain. They’re also nocturnal, so your “studying” at night won’t bother them. As a general rule, the average lifespan of a hamster is between two and three years. You may not be seeking a pet that will be your constant companion for the rest of your life.
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Lizards
Pet lizards can be great, no matter what people think about them. All you have to do is find a nook and you’re good to go.
Providing plants to lizards is a piece of cake, and this is a major advantage. You won’t have to be concerned about them if you’re out all day at work. A pet lizard is something you should discuss with your roommate if you plan on getting one. Think about the following types of dogs:
- Bearded dragon
- Leopard gecko
- Fat-tailed gecko
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Chinchilla
Chinchillas are a better choice for college students than hamsters since they are more affectionate and cuddly. A limited quantity of space and the same level of care is required for these animals.
As a bonus, they’re self-cleaning, so all you need to do is keep ash or sand in their cage. Keep Chinchillas happy by playing with and loving them on a regular basis.
How high can chinchillas jump?
Snakes
Like their reptile peers, a snake is an excellent pet for college students. They don’t require much attention and can be kept in a small area. With a roommate, you’ve got an excellent alternative.
Keeping them fed is as simple as feeding them twice a week. Mice are easy to feed, but you should be able to do so. There are a number of snakes to consider, including the following:
- Corn snake
- Ball Python
- Smooth green snake
Corn snake bites – Anything to be worried about?
Birds
Is there a lot of room in your home? Using birds as an example would be a better choice. Because their cages stretch upward, you’ll have a lot more space in your apartment. There are many different kinds of birds, and here are just a few examples: canaries, parrots, and finches.
Birds, despite their intelligence, have been shown to be friendly toward people. While you’re studying, teach your bird a new trick or adopt a new friend. Avoid getting too involved with a particular bird because it is possible that some birds are more affectionate than others.
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Guinea Pigs
There’s no better substitute for a dog if you can’t have one. One of the most affectionate pets in the world is the Guinea pig. Makes them stand out from the crowd thanks to a wide selection of colors and individuality.
This is especially true if you’re keeping them in a small area, as these creatures are experts at escaping out of their confines. They live longer than their canine and feline counterparts. Here are some of the most common breeds of guinea pigs:
- Peruvian guinea pig
- Teddy guinea pig
- American guinea pig
Are Guinea Pigs Nocturnal or just lazy?
Hedgehog
Hedgehogs, in spite of their spines, are adorable. They don’t need much attention throughout the day because they’re nocturnal. Like hamster cages, hedgehog cages look a lot like those for hedgehogs and guinea pigs. It is ideal for college students to follow these diets because they are simple and easy to keep up with.
Even though it may take some time, they will eventually develop feelings for you. When you give your hedgehog time and patience, it will develop into a loyal and loving companion. As a bonus, they’re excellent for Instagram shots. Keep in mind that these animals are classed as exotic pets before making a purchase.
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Best Pets for College Students – Conclusion
Because of the therapeutic nature of caring for another living creature, having a pet can be an effective stress-relieving tool for college students. In addition, they help us feel less isolated.
Before getting a pet, think about how much time you’ll be able to devote to it in the short and long term. This is why low-maintenance pets like turtles or Betta fish are great for college students.
Choose your pet carefully and establish a relationship with a local pet store or an excellent online resource so that you always have the necessary supplies and information at hand.
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) at Nation Taiwan University,Master of Science (M.S.) in Biomedical Engineering at National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
