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You Don't Have To Leave Him!!
A move can be a stressful event for everyone involved...but it does not mean that you have to leave your pet. After all, your pet is a member of the family and you wouldn't just leave your child, spouse, or other family member behind when you move would you? It is your responsibility to find housing that will allow all of your family members to reside together. It is not acceptable to give up your pet because you are moving, with a little planning and some time and commitment, you can find a place to live with your pet!
When looking for a place that will take your pets, remember the following:
Be prepared to work hard and spend time.
Find out what makes landlords say yes to pets.
Demonstrate that you are a responsible pet owner and a good tenant.
Be a great representative for all pet-owning tenants.
Tips for Tenants Seeking Housing:
Bring up the subject of pets in person with the property owner rather than over the phone, if possible. Personally presenting information about yourself and your pet may help convince the landlord to say yes.
Prepare a dossier on your pet to present to the landlord. Include your pet's resume and references from former landlords, neighbors, obedience instructors, and veterinarians.
Offer to sign a pet agreement and pay an additional pet deposit.
Encourage landlord to meet your freshly groomed, well-behaved pet.
Be a Responsible Pet Owner
Create a resume (see below) about the pet, including such documents as proof of spay/neuter, records of up-to-date vaccinations, indications of regular veterinary visits, and obedience school diplomas;
Have written references from former landlords and neighbors, dog trainers, obedience class instructors, and veterinarians specifically discussing the pet;
Offer to sign a pet agreement with the landlord;
Invite the landlord to see the animal in his or her current setting, and to check on the pet after move-in;
Always clean up after your pet;
Have the pet spayed or neutered;
Provide appropriate exercise and attention for the pet daily, and make suitable arrangements for the same when planning to be away;
Don't let the dog or cat roam the streets, and know the health & safety benefits of keeping a cat indoors and a dog under control.
If you're a prospective tenant, impress upon your potential landlord your knowledge and practice of responsible pet ownership. Usually, responsible pet owners make responsible, good tenants.
Why a Pet Resume?
A pet resume provides an opportunity to present potential landlords with a summary of your companion animal's best qualities and examples of your responsibility as a pet owner. Try to address the following areas in your pet resume.
Mention anything about your pet's age, activity level, and/or breed traits that help make him or her a "good tenant." Emphasize characteristics that make your pet suited for city living. Tell the landlord something special about your companion animal's personality, and how much you care about your pet.
Give examples of your pet's good behavior, and your responsibility. Has your dog been to obedience school or had special training? If your dog has lived in apartment before and is accustomed to it, be sure to say so. If you have more than one cat, let the landlord know how well your pets get along, and keep each other company while you are away. If your cat uses a scratching post, say so and also note your cat is litter box trained.
There can be a big difference between a 10-year old dog and a frisky puppy. If your pet is quiet and calm and/or less active, point that out. If you have an active dog, explain how you fulfill his or her exercise requirements.
Explain how you keep your pet clean and free of fleas.
Let the landlord know your dog or cat is spayed or neutered and explain that this makes for a well-behaved, healthier pet. Also note that the animal is up-to-date on his or her vaccinations, and mention who your pet's veterinarian is.
Describe your arrangements for your pet when you go to work or on vacation.
In addition to your pet's resume, you may also want to attach reference letters from current and pervious landlords and/or neighbors; certificates of completion of obedience/training classes; references from your pet's trainer or groomer; and a health certificate from your vet; and a picture of your pet, especially if the animal is cute.
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