Does anyone have puppy or kitten that they care for while in Nursing school?

MB37 · Jan 4, 2007

What is your living situation? House? Apartment? Live alone? Husband/roommates? If you live alone in an apartment it makes getting a dog much harder. Obviously is can be done, even during NS, but unless like the previous poster you really need a companion it might not be the best idea. I got my first cat (he came with a roommate, the roommate moved out and the cat didn't) when I was in school for my first degree and working close to fulltime. Triton was fine, but there were two of us and we didn't work the same hours, so someone was frequently home with him. I don;t really remember any problems. The second cat though... I accidentally adopted a stray neighborhood kitten 4 years ago. He's the world's sweetest little cat, but when he was little he was so destructive! Every candle holder and picture frame that I own was shattered, anything paper left out was shredded (try explaining that "The cat ate my homework") - and my 3 year old cat started acting like a kitten again. Cats aren't hard to take care of, but they're not "easy" either, and they can be a 15-20 year commitment. That being said, I love my two little guys. They meet me at the door every day when I get home, and one always rolls over immediately for his welcome belly scritch. I joke to my husband that next time we should try to get one of those aloof cats I've read so much about, since ours are on our laps about 90% of the time that we're home and cry if we so much as shut the bathroom door with them outside. Definitely get a pound animal if you get one - don't encourage pet stores or breeders to make a profit when so many need a good home. Good luck, whatever you decide!

Megsd, BSN, RN · Jan 4, 2007

I agree with most everyone that now would not be the best time to get into such a committment. I have kind of both sides. I do not have a dog of my own, and want one very much. BUT as much as I am in school and clinicals, the dog would be left locked up for much of the time which isn't fair to the dog, and I don't have the time, energy or desire to potty-train anything. I plan to get a dog (from a rescue org.) when I graduate and have the time to devote.

That said, I live with my boyfriend and he has a Husky. He's a firefighter and works 24 hour shifts, so when he's on duty, I am in charge of the dog. If I am gone all day at school, the dog is locked up in her crate while I'm gone. When I get home, all *I* want to do is study. But I have a 50 pound hyper puppy jumping around, excited to see me, wanting me to play. It makes studying much more complicated, I have to take frequent breaks to let her outside, she sits on my books, or licks my hands while I write... it's a pain! I adore her and she's great company, but she'd be much easier to get along with if I weren't so busy.

So I would say to wait. I'm sure you want to be involved in caring for and training your dog, and nursing school is not the most accomodating time in your life to do that.

TemperStripe · Jan 4, 2007

Hi there!

I used to work at an animal shelter.

I have a 4 month old German Shepherd. I'm crazy about him, however, he is an UNBELIEVABLE amount of work. The socialization process is very important (especially in the protective breeds) and that alone means we're out pretty much every night doing something with other dogs and other people. He goes to training classes once a week, too (which is another VERY important thing for a big dog, and even for little ones, yes, I would highly recommend this.) Then there's the cost. The shots (4 or 5 sets when they're babies) cost $75-$100 each time he goes to the vet. The neuter surgery will cost $250. Then there's the food. The toys. The stuff he needs to chew on. Puppies are like having a baby. I would not recommend getting one for "friendship" because until they are a bit older, they are children who need to be cared for constantly. You must be very, very committed or it won't be at all fair to the animal and you risk having a dangerous, needy pet that is at high risk of relinquishment when you get tired of it's antics.

On that note, adopting an older dog who's already housebroken might not be a bad idea. Older dogs need love, too, and they often make better "companions" because they are often less excitable, more mature, and in general, calmer.

And finally, cats. Cats are awesome! Kittens are hyper but adult cats make EXCELLENT companions. Of all your options, I'd highly recomend adopting an adult cat. They are wonderful companions who will be so grateful for your company. Pick an adult cat. That's my recommendation.

Good luck!