I remember when I rented my first off-campus apartment…I was so excited to be out of the dorm. Independent off-campus living was my road to freedom. I found a one bedroom just 5 minutes away from campus, the complex was new, and apartment management allowed pets. There were dogs everywhere.

Since I had dogs growing up, I thought that having one in college would be relatively easy and fun. Having her around was entertaining, but it was a big responsibility, too. Her name was Cleo, she was a Siberian Husky with steel-blue eyes, and she would sit in the window and watch students coming and going on their way to class. I met a lot of people who would stop me and ask what kind of dog she was.

Recommendation: if you have to get a dog, get one that’s a conversation starter, that is, if you like people as much as you like dogs.

So here are a few tips on avoiding complications if you get a pet while living off campus.
Sharing your apartment with a canine friend is awesome. Dogs can give unconditional acceptance and loyalty, provide constant companionship, and even help relieve stress after a hard day.

1. If you have a roommate make sure he/she’s cool with having a pet. Funny story: my roommate had a guy over one night and they were in the living room watching tv. Note: She’d just met him. Cleo (the pup) went into her bedroom and found her thong on the floor and ran down the hallway into the living room tossing it in the air like a toy. She proudly dropped it at the guy’s feet. I don’t think my roommate ever got over it

2. If an apartment complex allows pets, there will ALWAYS be a pet deposit and possible which can be as high as $500 depending on what where the student apartments are located. Some apartments impose a number of restrictions on their maintenance. It’s not uncommon for weight or breed limits to be set in some areas. Be sure you read your lease agreement or consult with your apartment manager before you bring the dog home. This was the mistake I made – I fell in love with Cleo, brought her home, got very attached and then realized that there was a weight limit ( I think this has something to do with the bigger the dog, the bigger the poop.) When she grew to 35lbs. I was forced to find another apartment. This is NOT what you want to do, in the middle of semesters, etc. Cleo topped out at 45 lbs., which for many apartment complexes, is considered a large dog, which equaled large deposit and a cleaning fee.
Pet deposits range from $200-$500 depending on where you live. Most deposits are non-refundable so find this stuff out ahead of time!

3. Consider that you’ll have your canine friend for many years (10-15) so start saving your money now. Factor in the cost of dog food, treats, toys, grooming care, vaccinations & vet visits…this is a BIG financial commitment! Dog food runs from really cheap (don’t buy at discount stores – it’s been sitting there for years, and God knows what’s actually in it) to expensive. A 30lb bag of premium dog food from Pets Mart can be as high as $70-90. Do your research before you buy-there’s a ton of nutritional information for Spot on the web.

4. Have FUN with your pup. Remember, all he wants to do is be with YOU. Try not to leave him alone all day – come back and let him out between classes, or ask a neighbor to if you’re going to be gone for an extended period. Take him with you to Sonic or to a friend’s place. Dog Parks are a fun place to go if you’re in a densely populated and urban area. If Fido is “social” he will love going to the park. This is also a great way to meet new people, and make new friends. Who knows, your next serious relationship might be at the dog park somewhere! I just hope you like his dog!