Owning a Pet in the USA

When Rice came, I was really happy; I finally had a dog after wanting one for so long! Many international students consider getting a pet when they are studying abroad. It is their first time they live on their own and feel independent.

But, it is important to think carefully about getting a pet, as they are an investment of both money and time. I found that it is very expensive to raise a puppy. I spent $1000 dollars every month to buy the best dog food, snacks, toys and other supplies, as well as taking them to play every week, regular baths and so on. There is also bills from the vet for their shots, exams and to see them if they get sick. And having a dog basically replaces all your social activities. When you get home, you have to take the dog out to play, not to mention you have to cook dinner and clean up at night. It's really exhausting. Friends can't take you back to China for two months, because you need to consider who will care for your pet. Besides, it is troublesome and expensive to go out with the dog. Airline tickets with pet carry-on and pet friendly hotels are extra expensive.

Before I got a dog, I had a lot of expectations of what it would be like. I saw many dogs skills online, like shaking hands, touring and even talking with buttons. I expected the dog to have an angel personality, friendly when outside and quiet at home. I even imagined my dog becoming an Internet celebrity and raising me with money. However, Rice was a little devil when he was a child. He was very naughty and made trouble every day, such as chewing and escaping from his home. But still, I thank Rice for coming into my life! Because I could feel his unconditional, unreserved love for me.

After I actually had a dog, I gradually discovered that Race was indeed 70% angelic. He was very friendly to humans, but occasionally would bark uncontrollably, like a siren. He’s also really cheerful, but sometimes he looks lonely. So, I just want my Rice to be a real puppy. When he doesn't want to learn skills, he has a snack to enjoy instead. When walking outside, I let him sniff everywhere, enjoy sunny weather and even roll in the mud. It's not that I don't have expectations for my dog, but that all my expectations are now based on love, understanding and cherishing rather than what’s online. After all, his life expectancy is only a dozen years.

So, with any pet, you need to think ahead and manage your time and money, because pets trust us with their lives. When you can take on this responsibility, think about pet ownership, because it can enrich your life wherever you are.

- Yang Yang, GHP @ NCSU