McKenna Nylander, a journalism major and graphic design minor, said, “Growing up I always had animals and I feel like I grew responsible taking care of them. It’s been nice having something small like a hedgehog to take care. I’d say it’s beneficial to me to have a pet to take care of.”
Nylander has had a hedgehog named Spike for a year and a half. She said he was her mother’s class pet and he needed a home after her job changed.
“He’s super low maintenance and I use puppy pads that are super easy to clean up. I wash his bedding once a week,” Nylander said. “If I’m watching something on the tv he’s the best cuddle buddy and he’s super chill.”
Rene Sollars, an animal control officer with the Laramie Animal Shelter, said to take time when considering getting a pet.
“Don’t jump into it. Consider what type of pet is the best choice and not based on looks. Check social and energy levels,” said Sollars.
Sollars said additional things to consider are checking with landlords to avoid eviction notices and saving up money for emergency vet visits.
The rise of pets in shelters being related to college students abandoning pets in the summer is a misconception said Sollars.
“Just make sure you have good time management and thoroughly think through ‘is this something I can handle in college.’ If they feel like they can’t, but still want to take care of something it may be best to consider something small like a fish, hedgehog or hamster that doesn’t require as much attention,” Nylander said.
Aleah Biertzer, the HOPES program coordinator with the Wellness Center, said, “LAWS has been looking for foster homes for pets.”
For people who do not have pets and are unable to get pets, the Wellness Center is looking to have puppy playtime and kitty cuddle time again in the future.
Biertzer said in the spring of 2020 they tried having the event online, but it was not as effective.
In January, Biertzer adopted her dog, Luda. Luda is a 16 week old shih tzu and bichon frise mix.
“There’s the responsibility piece with training. Even in the frustrating times of accidents I’m a lot more excited to go home,” Biertzer said.
Sollars said that some people can find social networks with other people through having pets. This can create a sense of companionship and help people socially.
“The number one thing is companionship, I think there are also studies to show benefits like lowered blood pressure and stuff like that.
“It’s not a trouble free situation. It’s not all roses. There’s the time commitment, the expense, the possibility of property damages. The situations can be overcome but are a challenge if people are not prepared for those,” Sollars said.
