Renting With A Dog

If you own a dog and you don't own your own house, it can be something of a challenge to find the right living space. Some landlords don't allow dogs at all, while others have size or breed requirements, and insist on security deposits, which can be frustrating and problematic.

Finding The Right Spot

When you are thinking about renting with your dog in tow, be upfront about it from the very beginning. Tell any agency you are using about your pet, and make sure that "pets welcome" is explicitly stated in any ad you apply to, as this will save a great deal of time and effort, and frustration! You certainly don't want to fall in love with a property only to find that the landlord will not allow dogs. Nor do you want the hassle of going through applications and credit checks only to be told that your dog is not allowed.

Some places have a size restriction or a breed restriction, and if you own a a pitbull or a rottweiler, you can bet that your search for housing will be a little more difficult! Confirm the acceptability of your dog's breed before you even show up to look.

Make sure that you find a property that will be suitable for your dog in terms of space to walk and exercise. Is there a good grassy area nearby? Is the street and the neighborhood a good and safe place for you and your dog to walk?

Reading Your Contract

You've told the landlord or agency about your dog; you've been offered the property and paid your deposit. But don't assume that everything is fine. Take a close look at the contract and make sure that you know every spot that pertains to your pet. Are you liable for a security deposit, or do you have additional cleaning responsibilities after you move out? Can your dog's barking get you evicted and are you responsible for replacing anything as a matter of course? Make sure that you are familiar with all of the particulars of your contract, and happy to accept them.

Rental Property Care

To make sure that you get your security deposit back, clean messes immediately as they happen. Respond quickly to any stains or dirt and make sure that you are prompt in telling the landlord if anything is broken or needs to fixed.

Vacuum regularly, especially if your dog has a heavy coat, and you will minimize the amount of cleaning that you need to do when moving out. This is important, as hair can get so thoroughly embedded in the carpet that it is difficult to remove. Dog owners also have a tendency not to notice their dog's hair in the same way that a non-dog owner does!

Finally, keep in mind that you should always pick up after your dog while on walks, and make sure that you keep your dog leashed and under control in common areas.  This is not only polite, but in many cases is law. This will work to protect both you from liability and your pet from getting injured on the road.