Pet caregivers may have difficulty finding rental accommodations allowing animals. Sadly, the inability to find pet-friendly housing is a common reason that pets are surrendered to animal shelters. Fortunately, there are steps that people can take to help find suitable housing that includes their pet. Here are some tips and considerations for finding accommodation for you and your animals.
Highlight Your Responsibility
Landlords who don’t allow pets often list fear of damage as their major concern. Help alleviate this concern by highlighting all that you do to be a responsible citizen and pet caregiver. It only stands to reason that responsible pet caregivers will be responsible tenants, and people who take great care of their pets are likely to take great care of their homes. Be sure to do the following, and communicate these with any prospective landlords:
- Your pet is licensed with the respective municipality (where applicable), and you understand the importance of understanding and adhering to animal bylaws.
- Your pet is microchipped or tattooed.
- You have taken steps to socialize and train your pet (ex. Positive-reinforcement training), and they know basic commands.
- You regularly exercise your pet and understand the importance of this to their behaviour and overall well-being.
- You have a plan in place for your pet when you aren’t at home. For example, your pet is provided with enrichment items to keep them busy, you have a pet sitter, your dog has a crate they enjoy using, you have a pet cam that allows you to check on them, etc.
- You ensure your pet is regularly groomed (ex. Nail trims, regular brushing).
- You could also offer to let your landlord meet your dog prior to signing a lease agreement. During this time, you can demonstrate that your dog is clean, well-groomed, and well-behaved.
Provide References
Letters from previous landlords, your veterinarian, pet sitters and neighbours will also help demonstrate your level of responsibility and your pet’s good behaviour. Some people prepare a resumé for their pet with a photo, license details, vaccination record, obedience training and spay/neuter information. Be sure to mention that your pet is house trained, or litter trained and include a statement about how your pet acts when home alone and/or how it might act if the landlord needs to enter the suite.
Cite Studies Showing Pet Caregivers Make Great Tenants
Unfortunately, landlords who are hesitant to allow pets may have this outlook due to select negative experiences or anecdotal stories. It may be helpful to mention that there are many positives associated with renting to pet caregivers.
For instance, a 2005 study reports that tenants in pet-friendly units stay for an average of 46 months, compared to 18 months for tenants in units that don’t allow pets. In addition, the vacancy rate for pet-friendly housing was found to be significantly lower than that for housing that prohibited pets.
Subsequent research (Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative Report, 2021) has also reinforced these findings. Additionally, while property managers may be hesitant to allow pets because of a perceived increase in costs related to property damage caused by pets, this 2021 study found that pets can be financially beneficial. Pet friendly units are rented faster, and tenants with pets will stay for long — resulting in decreased financial losses for property owners when it comes to vacancies and marketing.
The presence of pets can also enhance the safety and security of both the property and its residents. For instance, dogs may serve as a natural deterrent to theft, break-ins or other criminal activity. Additionally, caregivers frequently walk their dogs in the early mornings or late at night — times when neighborhoods are typically quieter — helping to increase visibility and reduce the likelihood of suspicious activity.
Extra Costs
On average, pet-accepting accommodations charge higher rents and can require an additional pet damage deposit over and above the regular deposit required for new tenants. While this can make it attractive for landlords to allow pets, it also means extra expenses for you. Make sure you factor this into your rental budget.
After You Move In
Once you’ve found your rental accommodation, continue to be responsible with your pet:
- Keep your pet clean and groomed.
- Ensure they are on a leash or in a carrier whenever outside your rental unit (including hallways or other shared spaces).
- Regularly clean to prevent any pet odours from accumulating and always pick up after your pet.
Ask neighbours if they hear any noise from your pet when you’re not home. If they do, your pet may be bored or suffering from separation anxiety. See if you can adjust your schedule to come home during the day or consider having someone check on your pet while you’re out.
If you are considerate towards your neighbours, you will have a much better chance of enjoying a happy and lengthy tenancy period.
For more information, visit the following links:
Alberta Veterinary Medical Association
BC SPCA – Pet Owners Rental Guide
The Foundation for Interdisciplinary Research and Education Promoting Animal Welfare (FIREPAW)