Studies have shown that having pets can be beneficial to one’s health. Besides being cute and cuddly, pets provide companionship that can help with depression and loneliness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, bonding with a pet can even decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Dog owners may get more exercise by walking their dogs daily, and participating in pet-centered activities such as dog parks and pet parades allow pet owners to socialize. 

Events on our campus featuring animals have been wildly popular. It is safe to say that plenty of college students are animal lovers, and it can be very tempting to get a new canine or feline friend. However, adoption centers in Oswego County can make it difficult, or nearly impossible, for students to be approved for adoption. Although students may feel confident in their pet care capabilities, there are aspects of pet ownership that may not be taken into consideration initially.

The cost of pet care is one obvious aspect. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates that the first year of owning a cat can cost up to $1,174, while dogs can cost up to $2,008. These estimates include annual expenses, such as food, medical expenses, litter, toys and treats, as well as capital expenses. Capital expenses are typically one-time purchases, including having your pet spayed or neutered and essential accessories such as carriers, collars, leashes and litter boxes. To adopt a pet from the Oswego Animal Shelter, adoption fees range from $70 to $105 for cats and $100 to $160 for dogs. Shelters need to verify that applicants are employed or have sufficient income to take care of a pet.

Even if a student is sure they can afford a pet, they may not have enough time for one. Students have very busy and hectic schedules that keep them away from home most of the day, especially if they are involved in clubs, teams or have a job. On top of making time for hanging out with their pets, owners also need to make sure they are not too busy for veterinarian appointments. Many adoption applications ask how long a pet would spend alone daily, and with college students, this number is very likely to be on the higher end.  

Pets also need stable environments that most students are often unable to provide them. Off-campus students typically rent their homes, making it the landlord’s decision if pets are allowed. It is common for landlords to have a no-pet policy or charge additional fees for them. Students also are likely to move between semesters, which can result in pets becoming obstacles. Housing issues are among the top reasons why people give their pets up, so shelters must be certain of someone’s stability before approving an adoption. 

While the barriers students face when it comes to pet adoption may seem unfair on the surface, shelters and other adoption centers have a responsibility to ensure that animals are going to good, stable homes where they will be well taken care of. 

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