First, we buy textbooks. We form study groups. We join organizations. We take tests. We write essays. We go to the library. We call our moms. We attempt to have a social life. We stay up late. We binge watch. We are college students.
The modern college student is found buried beneath these responsibilities, and many others. It seems that new items are added to our to-do lists every hour. There is no escaping the chaotic reality that we have found ourselves in, but there is sure-fire way to make your hectic days a little brighter. You could get a dog.
Initially, this idea may seem intimidating and a little bit irrational. The thought of adding an additional responsibility on top of your already over-flowing plate gives you a headache. You frequently forget to eat between your classes. How could you remember to feed a dog? These panicked reactions are valid, but they do not compare to the rewarding experience of owning a dog.
Becoming a dog owner while in college has many benefits.
First, having a dog is like having a built-in best friend. Except this friend doesn’t get mad when you don’t text them back, and you will never have to meet them for over-priced coffee dates. A dog is a best friend that is always there for you, partly because they live with you, but mostly because they are loyal companions.
Second, a dog will love you unconditionally. They do not care if you fail your test, miss your 8 a.m. or forget to respond to two classmates on a discussion board. Despite these fumbles, they will still greet you at the door with their tails wagging.
Third, having a dog forces you to go outside. You can no longer sit inside watching Friends and avoiding the sunlight. Dogs require an ample amount of exercise and social interaction with other dogs. Fresh air and vitamin D are just as important for your health as they are for the health of your dog.
As I write this column, my own dog is laying in bed next to me. She is asleep and snoring obnoxiously loud. In a few minutes, she will wake up and bark at me to take her outside. I will have to stop what I am doing to take care of her needs. This may seem like an inconvenience but witnessing her overwhelming excitement from simply mentioning the word “outside” is nothing short of rewarding.
