Finding An Apartment When You Have A Dog
A dog quickly becomes part of your family. You love them, care for them, and accommodate them in your daily life. Of course, when it comes time to find an apartment, finding one that welcomes your dog is not always as easy as you'd hope. Many landlords do not allow pets, but you can find a dog-friendly apartment if you follow the tips below.
Gather your dog's paperwork.
Landlords are more likely to allow your dog to move in if you have documentation showing that the dog is vaccinated, trained, and an overall good citizen. So, as you begin your apartment search, print off your dog's vet records. If they attended any puppy or obedience classes, gather copies of those certificates. Then, consider having an old landlord or roommate write a letter in which they explain that your dog is housebroken, friendly, and good to be around. This is a sort of reference letter for your dog, and it can go a long way.
Apartments that are listed as pet-friendly often require this documentation, so you're not at all wasting your time by getting it together.
Focus on apartment communities.
Start your search with apartment communities, rather than those owned by private landlords. These communities often have community-wide rules regarding pets, and lots of them permit dogs. It is easier for them, as larger companies, to fix any damage done by canine tenants and to offer amenities, like dog washing stations, that appeal to renters.
Note that most apartment communities that allow dogs do charge an additional security deposit, plus "pet rent" to cover any damage your dog may cause. Even the best-behaved dogs leave behind hair and odors in the carpet, and your landlord will need to deal with this when you move out.
Think about the amenities, too.
As you navigate your search, try not to settle for the first apartment you find just because it allows pets. Dog-friendly apartments are not in as short of supply as it may seem, so it's worth your while to find a spot with amenities that work for you and your pup. Tile floors in the entryway, green space where you can walk your pup, and enough floor space for them to play are all important.
Finding a dog-friendly apartment can take some time and patience, but when you and your pup move into your new place, it will all have been worth it.
Reach out to a lodging expert to find pet-friendly apartments for rent.