Madison Hayter, sophomore business administration major, is the proud pet mom of new Dachshund puppy named Eleanor Ann. Madison’s other pet children include Lucy, the Yorkshire Terrier, and Dean, the cat.
The new pup has many hobbies such as cuddling, chasing feet and being held.
“I tell her when I grow a third arm she can be held all the time,” Hayter said.
Hayter takes Eleanor with her everywhere and was on the William Jewell College campus with her little one for the first time Feb. 17.
“Previously, I brought Lucy [to campus], and everyone enjoys Lucy,” Hayter said. “She has such a lively, happy spirit. I’m fortunate enough to live at home and be with my dogs. It makes me happy to share my loving dogs with students who miss their pets.”
When it comes to doing business assignments for school, Hayter is helped rather than hindered by her furry friends.
“[Lucy] helps me read,” Hayter said. “She sits there on the bed and keeps me company. My cat holds the pages down for me; so all my pets are helpful. And hopefully Eleanor will be too. Maybe on The Hill with all the wind she will be a good paper weight.”
Four-legged companions such as Hayter’s go beyond homework help; they impact their owners’ lives with their affection as well.
“I’ve had pets all my life,” Hayter said. “My first pet was a longhaired dachshund named Puddin. Our second dachshund, Sara Lee, is who really grew our family’s love for dachshunds though. She was the sweetest, most caring and loving dog. She was a mom before we rescued her, and Sara Lee cared for us like a mom, as much as a dog can, anyway. Eleanor Ann is our third longhaired dachshund. I love dogs so much. I can’t imagine growing up without a companion.”
However, just because pets are cute and cuddly does not mean everyone should own one.
“You really have to think about the time and money commitment,” Hayter said. “Whether it’s a shelter dog or puppy, it takes time to get them adjusted to their new home and giving them the time they deserve. You have to evaluate your current stage in life to see if a dog would be fitting. Plus, the getting up several times in the night to take them out to go to the bathroom. It’s a lot of money too, the vet bills and the essentials such as food and toys.”
In the end, the benefits outweigh the costs and a true friendship is forged.
“They simply make me happy,” Hayter said. “I get excited thinking about coming home to them and seeing how excited they are to see me. It’s so rewarding to have their love.”
Pets are helping Hayter through her career as a student at Jewell and could possibly play a role in her life after school.
“I love animals,” Hayter said. “I don’t know what I want to do with my major but I wouldn’t be opposed to working with animals in the future.”
