Currently an out-of-state student and being so far from home I have always wanted to adopt a dog. Being out of the dorms and into an apartment I thought this was the perfect opportunity to convince my parents that I needed to have a dog. I was told I could only adopt a dog if I kept a fish alive for two months and then they would consider my proposal. So, eagerly wanting a dog so bad I went out and bought a fish. Two months pass and I just couldn’t wait any longer. Begging and begging I was finally given the okay.

Already doing my research I knew I wanted to rescue an animal from a shelter. When I came across the Nashville Humane Association and hearing great things about it, I got in my car and immediately headed there. Going in, I knew I had to be realistic about what kind of dog would best be for an apartment and if a puppy was a smart idea. Looking at all the faces of these dogs it broke my heart to see them all caged up just wanting a family to come and adopt them. Finally, turning a corner I made eye contact with a little white dog with spots. I immediately fell in love and knew she had to be mine.

Taking this seven-month old puppy back home with me, I decided to name her Cali. Naming the puppy was easy, but realizing the responsibility of a puppy came as a hard slap in the face. The first night it was all fun and play until Cali peed on my carpet. Well, makes sense she is a puppy and has never been potty trained. So, patiently trying to potty train her its time to see how she does while I’m at school. I take her for a run before my class, give her water and a treat and put her in her crate while I go to class for an hour. Excited to come home and see my new puppy I didn’t know I was going to walk into an emotional hour.

Walking into my room I found Cali very upset in her crate and a huge one-foot hole in my carpet. The paint on my wall and door all scratched up from Cali trying to escape the crate. I let her out and she clung to me like she hadn’t seen me in ten years. I try to stay calm, but all I can do is cry because of the mess and damage she had done. Adopting a puppy was supposed to be fun and carefree. We were supposed to go on runs, play fetch, and cuddle at night. Adopting Cali, I wasn’t fully aware of the responsibility a puppy really is.

Now having Cali for a week, I have learned so much already. I have learned that puppies need a lot of attention and exercise. I have learned that a puppy really is a baby and you have to be understanding and be confident in training them. Cali is the sweetest most loving puppy, and I am so thankful to have adopted her from a shelter.

All I can say is that if you are a college student and wanting a dog, really think about the responsibilities. Adopt from a shelter and do lots of research. Research not only on shelters but research on being a parent to a dog in college. Saving Cali was the best decision I could have made. She has taught me about responsibility, time management, and loving her unconditionally.