Finding a nice home to live in can be tricky enough. However, as a dog parent, you will quickly discover that your renting issues can get a lot worse. This is because many landlords are hesitant to lease outhouses to people with pets.
Their argument is that dogs tend to damage rental homes, increasing the cost for the landlords. So, they try to keep pet owners away as much as possible. Now, while this may be a cause for concern for you, there is good news.
It isn’t impossible to find pet-friendly housing, especially with a little help. So, to make sure that you are on the right track, follow these great tips below.
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Start Your Search Early
If possible, try to start your search for a new home for a few months in advance. As mentioned, you will have your work cut out for you when it comes to finding a rental house that allows dogs. So, to avoid being rushed for time, begin the search as soon as possible.
What’s more, with more time, you have the opportunity to find a house that is just right for your dog. After all, it isn’t just about selecting a home that will allow pets. You must also select a house that is spacious and that meets the needs of your furry best friend. This is the only real way that you and your pup will be happy in your new home.
Know Who to Ask
Now, there are some websites that will allow you to filter searches based on whether pets are allowed or not. These are still rather rare, however, so you may still need to conduct some good, old-fashioned detective work. In this case, look to other dog owners for help.
If you have friends or colleagues with dogs, start with them. They should be able to let you know if there are any vacancies near where they live. And since their pups are allowed, you already know that it is a dog-friendly environment.
Your other option is to make inquiries with real estate agents that have dogs. They, too, will be an excellent source for pooch-friendly housing. Even better, they may be able to let you in on some secrets to win over landlords as well!
Consider Registration for ESA Dogs
As you know, many people get pups to help with certain emotional and mental health issues that they may be struggling with. So, do you have a pup that has been approved by a therapist? If so, you can register your pooch as an emotional support animal.
In many areas, landlords respect dogs that are registered as ESAs. This is because they appreciate that their potential tenants need them. Not to mention, most emotional support dogs tend to have better behaved as well.
Therefore, landlords may be more willing to accept dogs that have this kind of registration. If this is an option for you, then it is definitely one that you should consider.
Write a Pet Resume
If your potential landlord is on the fence about renting to you, then you need to win him or her over. More specifically, your pooch needs to make a good impression. Due to this, you should think about putting together a pet resume.
That’s right, this is now something that pet parents are beginning to do. A pet resume is much like a human one. It showcases personality, behavior, and all of your pup’s great qualities. In short, it shows property managers just why your pooch would make an excellent tenant.
When putting together your pup’s resume, start with certificates. For instance, has your dog received any special training? Did they go to training or behavior school? Or maybe they were in competitions or other types of events. This kind of proof shows that your pup knows how to behave.
Also put together images or videos that show your pooch being calm, well-behaved, and pleasant to be around. The more details you can include, the better.
Get Recommendation Letters
Another thing you should start collecting is recommendation letters. Look to previous landlords for this type of certification. Landlords will be more likely to rent to you if you can show actual evidence from previous rental agents.
Make sure that you only include legitimate sources and add contact information as well. This way, your potential landlords will be able to call up these individuals and verify the information. Although it can seem like a rather tiresome step, your effort will definitely be rewarded.
Make a Financial Commitment
As mentioned, most landlords are afraid that your pup will be a financial burden on them. So, to increase your chances of your application being approved, make sure that this concern is removed. Some pet owners will do this by placing a deposit. This way, if your pooch does do any kind of damage, the landlord is aware that he or she will be compensated.
In particular, make sure to sign a document saying that you will pay for any damages done to the property. Again, this can make the landlord feel more at ease. Then, before you move in, take pictures of every part of the house and have the landlord attest to these.
When it is time for you to move out, you can invite the landlord to compare the before and after images. If he or she can spot any changes, then you can forfeit your deposit. If not, you get the money back. This step can reduce complications for both parties.
As you can see, you don’t have to feel down that there aren’t many dog-friendly housing options available. With some effort and a little bit of creativity, you can find more living opportunities for you and your pooch. This is why it is important to take all of the tips here to heart.
So, the next time you need to find a home along with your pooch you know exactly which steps to take. As a result, your search should go a lot more smoothly. Furthermore, you will be able to find the perfect place for you and your dog as well.
Author Bio:
Tasha Williams has been a dog trainer for over a decade. During this period, she has worked alongside pets, owners, and companies such as USServiceAnimals to train dogs to help people. She has been instrumental in pairing dogs and people and creating beautiful families.