Pet friendly apartments – Learn more with Healthier Pets Today! Moving into a new apartment can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, with a mix of emotions that can leave you feeling overwhelmed.
One of the most common stressors for renters is finding pet friendly apartment complexes allowing them to bring their beloved pets.
So, is it hard to find an apartment that allows pets? The answer is yes, but with some research and patience, it is possible to find pet friendly apartments that meet your needs.
Owning pets and renting doesn’t necessarily go hand in hand, and an increasing number of landlords refuse to allow animals on the rental premises.
There’s no doubt that this is a major concern because most of us love our pets, and the idea that we may have to find them new homes when we move is, for most of us, too awful to contemplate.
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1. Give Yourself Enough Time

People prefer to avoid the hassles involved with moving, much less finding pet friendly apartments.
If you are renting and your lease is expiring soon, start looking for available properties and contact real estate agents or rental agencies at least six weeks ahead of time.
2. Additional Fees
If your pet causes any damage to the property, such as chewing on carpets or defecating on walls, you may incur additional fees at the end of your lease.
When renting pet friendly apartments, any damage caused by pets is typically covered by your pet deposit. However, for no-pet housing, any damage caused by pets is an out-of-pocket expense.
Renting with pets can be extremely difficult, as many landlords and rental companies don’t allow pets or have strict restrictions on the type and size of pet that is allowed.
This can be frustrating for pet owners trying to find a place to live, as it limits the number of potential rentals they can look at.
Additionally, pet owners may be charged additional pet fees or deposits or must purchase pet insurance to secure a rental.
3. Understand Why Many Housing Communities Reject Pets

Imagine you are a landlord, housing manager, property owner, or condominium association board member.
You may have had unpleasant experiences with irresponsible pet owners who failed to confine their animals safely or neglected to clean up after them.
Some may have even tried to sneak in pets or left behind damaged carpets and drapes when they moved out.
Pet ownership can sometimes lead to concerns regarding barking dogs and potential neighborhood issues. Consider practical ways to address any problems that may arise with pet owners.
All of these concerns are valid, so those seeking a rental property, whether an apartment, house, or condominium, must demonstrate their responsibility as pet owners committed to providing proper pet care and maintaining good relationships with their neighbors.
4. Insufficient Yard Space or Fencing
While having a garden is advantageous, not having one or lacking proper fencing doesn’t necessarily lead to rejection.
Explain in your application how you plan to compensate for the lack of yard space, such as committing to regular walks and trips to the nearest dog park.
Demonstrating your dedication to meeting the dog’s needs can outweigh the absence of a yard.
5. Lack of Veterinary Preparation

Having a vet selected in advance signals your commitment to this responsibility.
Include information about your chosen veterinarian or your plans to find one in your application to underscore your dedication to your future pet’s well-being.
Ensure your pets are adequately vaccinated before applying for pet friendly apartments. Providing proof of vaccinations shows your commitment to the well-being of all animals in your care.
To secure a rental agreement for a pet-friendly apartment, you must present a letter from your veterinarian attesting to your diligent care of your pet.
This documentation confirms that you will ensure the safety and well-being of your pet while residing in the apartment.
It is necessary to provide documentation of spaying/neutering and rabies vaccination. It’s worth noting that sterilized pets are typically healthier, calmer, and less likely to cause annoyance to neighbors.
You can quickly obtain this documentation from most veterinarians who routinely fulfill such requests for their clients.
6. Make Use of Available resources

If you are moving to a new area and have pets, contacting the local humane society or animal care and control agency is a good idea.
“Contact local animal welfare organizations for a list of pet-friendly apartment communities.
You can also ask real estate or rental agents who own pets or share your love for animals for recommendations.” This can help you find a suitable place where your beloved pets are welcome.
Check community guidebooks at supermarkets or near newspaper distribution boxes when looking for pet friendly apartments.
Check the guide for pet policies and restrictions. Focus on places that allow most pets, like cats or dogs under 20 pounds. Consider individual homes and condos, too – owners may be easier to persuade.
Ideal pet-friendly communities have clear pet-keeping guidelines that specify owner responsibilities. This helps ensure responsible residency among all pet caregivers.
7. Proving That You Are a Responsible Pet Owner
The more documentation you can provide about your responsible pet ownership, the more likely you will find pet friendly apartments.
Please compile the following documents:
A letter of reference from your current landlord or condominium association. The letter should verify that you are a responsible pet owner.
1. Proof of Completed or Current Enrollment in Dog Training
Directing your request to the individual or group with the ultimate authority to grant it is essential.
Typically, this will be the owner of the house or apartment. However, the owner may delegate the decision-making to a property or resident manager.
Before submitting a request to the board of directors or association overseeing the building, it is recommended that you consult with your landlord to obtain their approval.
This demonstrates respect for the landlord’s authority over the property and ensures that the request complies with any existing lease or agreement.
2. Adhere to Proper Protocol
It is essential to adhere to proper protocol to maintain a harmonious relationship between all parties involved.
If a no-pet policy is encountered, inquire if it is due to a negative experience with a previous tenant. Addressing the landlord’s prior experience may assist in presenting the request most effectively.
Ensure they are trained to use the appropriate potty area. Additionally, I always responsibly dispose of their waste, ensuring your peace of mind that your furry friend is in good hands.
8. Dishonest Pet Owners

You mustn’t attempt to sneak your pet in if a no-pets policy is in place.
This type of behavior only reinforces landlords’ reluctance to allow pets and could result in eviction or legal consequences.
Reasons Why Finding Pet Friendly Apartments Have Become Difficult…
Pets lower stress and assist with anxiety and depression. Being around an animal and petting them can lower your blood pressure and increase your levels of that lovely feel-good chemical, serotonin.
Now imagine having a building full of relaxed tenants with a general mental state and adorable dogs to boot? Sounds like a pretty incredible place to live.