Gerrie Hayward, DeKalb County Animal Welfare League president, advises anyone thinking of bringing a new pet home to consider these points:

Don’t bring a pet home until you are certain you have enough time to take care of it. Students juggling school, a part-time job and a social life may not have time to devote to an animal’s upkeep.

Determine first whether you can afford a pet. Food and regular visits to the vet add up quickly.

Renters should be sure their landlords allow pets.

Students should know whether their new pet is welcome at home during vacations or after graduation.

Hayward says many people want a stuffed animal to look at instead of a pet. Make sure you realize the responsibility involved with owning a live animal.