Let’s face it; life when you’re in school can be lonely, whether you’re on or off campus. It can be hard, coming back to an empty dorm room or apartment. It can be especially hard when you’re someone like me, who always has an animal around when you’re at home. What’s a pet lover to do?

No fear; Olua is here with five of her favorite small-space-safe pets. I have owned or currently own all of these critters, so you’re getting stuff straight from the source here. I’ll lay out the setup, cost, and some of the infinite wisdom I’ve gained dealing with these little critters.

1. Betta (Siamese Fighting Fish): These are probably the most low-maintaince, toughest pets you could ever own, and come in about every gorgeous color of the rainbow. They’re easy to care for; all you need is a tank a MINIMUM of one gallon (contrary to popular belief, bettas don’t like living in small containers and enjoy having space to spread out their fins) and some fish food. I recommend Hikari’s Betta Bio-Gold.

You don’t need a filter, because bettas aren’t crazy about moving water, but you will need to change the water about once a week. Never ever use water straight from the faucet, since it has chlorine and that will give you a very dead fish. Collect water in a gallon bottle and keep open and it to the side, refilling it every time you change the water. A week is enough time for the chlorine to safely evaporate.

Females can be kept together, but males will fight like Britney cornered by paparazzi. Take good care of your fishy and he could be with you from four to five years. Tank and food included, these guys will run you a very affordable $20 – maybe a little more if you want to give them some decorations. BettaTalk is a great site run by an awesome girl who will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about bettas. Read More »