Top Tips For Students (UK)

Naraivi · 10-31-2014, 04:42 AM

Hey guys I have been on this forum for awhile now just not overly active but I thought I'd share a couple of tips for Students wanting to own a hamster.

My name is Matt and I am 20 years old doing a Marketing course in the UK. I am currently in my third year of University.

Ever since the 1st year I really wanted to have a furry friend of my own however as to be expected all the rent agreements forbid pets and that's where my first tip comes in and its a bit naughty but IGNORE the rent agreements, as long as its something small like a hamster

.

Make sure you have the money!
Although hamsters are small you still need space! Student accommodation can be a bit tricky
More so than in other houses make sure your cage is secure! The last thing you want is a hamster ripping up the floor or damaging the skirting boards. You will lose your deposit!
Time! Make sure you have time to interact with your fluff buddy
I know its hard but keep your room clean!
Get a silent wheel, trust me!
Bin cages are a life saver, inexpensive and quieter than metal barred cages
Write up a schedule for when you need to clean your hamster out.
Buy supplies in bulk!

Taking all these things into consideration keeping a Hamster as a student is perfectly possible, you just really need to stay on top of cleaning your room and making sure your fur friend gets enough attention. I hope this has helped anyone considering getting a Hammy! A bit cheeky but if you have a partner get them to love the Hamster as much as you do and share the load

its what I've done hehe

Kairi · 10-31-2014, 05:19 AM

I'm also in my third year at uni and have done the same thing :P the only thing I'd say to do differently is that I checked with the landlords beforehand as, generally speaking, they are alright with people having hamsters (I know a couple of people who have done the same thing). That way when they come around for viewings etc you don't have to worry about hiding them or being told to get rid of them since I have heard of people getting hamsters then having to put them up for adoption because they didn't check with the landlord first and the landlord wasn't happy :/

I agree that it is perfectly possible to have them at uni, just keep some money aside in case of vet trips, etc

Vectis Hamstery · 10-31-2014, 05:21 AM

I would have to disagree with ignoring the rent agreement. Many landlords will consider small caged pets if you ask them and it's best to do so beforehand and get the agreement in writing.

I work with a rescue which has contacts from people who didn't get permission and the landlord has insisted the pet go once it is discovered. There's a particular influx around when students leave home in the Autumn and when they leave their accommodation in the summer.

I would urge students to be responsible in getting a pet and plan for both when you're at uni and when you go back home for the holidays. And remember hamsters can live 2-3 years so think about this if you get a pet before you go to uni or while at uni.

Naraivi · 10-31-2014, 05:22 AM

Yeah good point letting the landlord know is a good idea! Thanks for adding

I just think Hamsters are such great pets and responsible students should deffo take the leap and get one if theyve done enough thinking

Naraivi · 10-31-2014, 05:32 AM

In terms of going home, I have it quite easy because my parents don't live too far away and can grab me in the car, meaning Maurice can just stay in his tub. He has done the trip a few times and it seems like he barely notices that he is being moved, just falls asleep.