For those who love their pets at home, the idea of taking in your own animal at school has probably crossed your mind. What college student hasn’t fantasized about coming home to tiny eyes and furry ears after a long night of studying? While it often ends up surprising pet owners, caring for an animal in a college setting can be a lot to handle.
It is important to remember that a pet is a living creature and the decision to take in an animal is not one to be taken lightly. You should carefully consider the space and time you have to devote to a pet before adopting and the extensive research required before you choose a furry or scaly companion is a must. To start, check out Pipe Dream’s recommendations below.
Fish
The classic dorm pet, don’t overlook the natural friendship that these small creatures can provide. Fish are great for first-time pet owners and are perfect for those who want to reap the benefits of having a pet with little commitment. That being said, fish are still alive and must be cared for like any other pet.
Beta fish, guppies and goldfish are cheap, don’t require walks and can be left alone while you are in class. These species can also live in regular fish bowls that don’t require lights or an automatic filtration system. However, most fish survive best in a tank with a lamp and moving water. Unfortunately, these tanks are not allowed in dorms, so if you do decide to adopt a fish in a bowl, feed them once a day and swap out an inch of water for clean, room temperature water weekly to keep your fish healthy and clean.
Turtles
If you live off-campus and are not limited in the types of pets you can have, turtles are another good option for small spaces. These adorable reptiles are sociable creatures and their omnivorous diet allows room for a mixed diet, but store-bought turtle food and earthworms are generally recommended.
Turtles require at least a 40-gallon tank with a screened lid and designated wet and dry area. Because turtles tend to be messy eaters, they may also benefit from a separate feeding tank. The tanks must be cleaned and thoroughly disinfected at least once a week and upgraded as the turtle grows.
Frogs
Frogs make great pets because they’re fun to play with and are active and entertaining. The easiest frog types to care for are the Pipidae Frog and PacMan Frog, although each calls for unique care and should not be housed together. Frogs require at least a 10-gallon tank, need their water changed once a week and must be fed twice a day. Their food should consist of a combination of bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp and sinking fish food pellets.
Hamsters
While hamsters undoubtedly require the most attention of the pets listed, these fluffy and affectionate critters make for great furry companions. These adorable rodents love attention and to be taken out of the cage and played with almost as much as they love curling up in the palm of your hand for a nap. However, hamsters do need specialized care. Fresh food and water need to be available in the cage at all times and the hamster’s home should be cleaned with soap and water once a week.
Hamsters are naturally nocturnal and though they can adjust to your schedule, it will take time and should not be rushed, so be prepared for long nights with your furry friend. Hamsters’ incisors grow constantly, so wood chew sticks should be available in the hamster’s cage, in addition to other toys like hamster balls and a wheel.