Leaving home for college sometimes means leaving a canine or feline friend behind. Because residence hall policies prevent students from keeping any animal that can't breathe underwater, some students replace their former furry friends with other pets.
Having a companionship with an animal can make life more fulfilling. According to the American Animal Hospital Association Web site, pets can help people through hard times and stress by providing love and devotion.
Freshman Karl Spencer said he would like the option to keep pets other than fish. For Spencer, traditional pets are easier to love than fish.
"I had a dog when I lived at home, but unfortunately I can't have one here," he said. "I think it would be cool if I could get a pet I could actually play with, like a hamster or another small animal."
Some residents have found ways to be more creative while still following the underwater rule. Adam Zoibi, another freshman, enjoys the company of several specialty freshwater fish, some of which will grow to be about a foot long. According to Zoibi, humans can have a close relationship with these types of animals.
"These fish are really personable," he said. "They'll come right up to me if I put my hand near the tank, and they jump out of the water for their food. In some ways, they're like dogs."
Zoibi purchases his fish at Mr. Fish & More on Tillotson Avenue, a specialty store with several hard-to-find fish. Tetras are one of the more common species sold. Prices range from $1.99 for more common species to $50-$80 for more exotic fish. According to store owner Jeff Vandagriff fish are very convenient pets and easy to take care of.
"They're really low maintenance if your tank is set up properly," he said.
"You feed them everyday, but that's about it."
Cleaning out tanks can be a challenge, but fish lovers generally don't mind cleaning out the tank and taking care of their pets. Zoibi said that he enjoys the process.
"Taking care of them is part of owning a pet," he said. "I get a sense of fulfillment from cleaning out my tanks."
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