Table of Contents
Our Top 5 Tips for Finding a Home for Fido
You’ve finally leveled-up and are getting ready to look for apartments that match your lifestyle. You know you want the best amenities, plenty of space, and a great location. However, you also need pet friendly apartments for your furry family member.
If you’re looking to elevate your pet’s life just like yours, then check out these 5 tips for finding a pet-friendly apartment near you!
Consider Breed Restrictions
Breed restrictions are policies that disqualify you from living in a rental property if you own a specific breed of dog. These breeds are normally seen as noisy, destructive, or dangerous due to size or aggressive behavior. This can make it challenging for some renters to find a place to live. Of course, service animals are always exempt from breed restrictions on a rental property’s list.
Here are some common breeds that are restricted on rental properties:
- Akita
- Boxer
- Cane Corso
- Chow Chow
- Doberman Pinscher
- German Shepherd
- Great Dane
- Husky
- Pit Bulls (American, Staffordshire, and American Bulldog)
- Rottweiler
- Wolf-Hybrid
Whatever you do, don’t hide your pet. Not only will your landlord be well within their rights to terminate your lease, but you might be sued for violating your rental agreement.
Think About Location
When you want a luxury apartment, you also want a luxury location, but it might not be the best option for your pet. Try to find an apartment complex that has a place for you and your dog to spend quality time outdoors.
If you’re looking at luxury apartments in the city, make sure they have a private dog park for your pup to run off-leash. Looking for a place in the suburbs? Go for an apartment that’s close to a park or trail.
Don’t forget to stock up on pet-waste products to clean up after your pet, and a quality leash for different walks. For instance, you’ll want a leash with a long lead for walks on the trail, but you might want something shorter for a city walk.
Find Pet-Friendly Amenities
Of course, you want nothing but the best amenities for yourself, but don’t forget about our pup! Along with a private dog park, look for apartments that offer other amenities for your pet. This might be something like a private dog washing station that’s complete with pet-safe shampoo, aprons to keep you dry, and towels for your dog when you’re finished.
There are even some luxury apartments that like to celebrate your pet with special events. For instance, many properties like to end the summer with a doggie dip in the pool. It’s when the last swim of the season is reserved for your furry friend.
Even something as small as a treat station is a good way to know if a rental property is serious about being pet-friendly, and ready to welcome both you and your pet with open arms.
Update Your Pet’s Vaccinations
When you find a pet-friendly luxury apartment, they won’t let you move in with your pet, unless it’s up-to-date on all its vaccinations. Cats or dogs, big or small, you’ll need to make sure they have all the vaccines to live safely with other pets.
Distemper and rabies vaccinations are required by most rental properties, but check with your vet about other vaccinations that might offer your pet protection when you live in close proximity to other animals.
It should also be noted that most landlords and rental properties expect you to keep your cat strictly indoors, and that both cats and dogs will be spayed or neutered to prevent any unplanned litters and eliminate undesirable behaviors that can cause property damage.
Get Your Pet Ready to Move
After you sign your lease and are getting ready to put your whole life in boxes, remember that your pet may feel a little anxious before you move. After all, they have no idea what’s about to happen.
That’s okay. It’s actually a lot easier to move with your pet than you think. Here are some simple tips to get your pal to your new home safe and sound:
- Avoid changing your usual routine
- Entertain your pets a little more with some extra TLC
- Start packing early to get your pet used to boxes
- Talk to your vet about any tips to reduce stress in your pet
- Secure your pet and make sure they stay close during the moving process
The best thing you can do is to be patient with your pet, and know any unusual behavior isn’t permanent. Once your pet knows they’re in a safe place, they’ll go right back to their usual selves.
Don’t Give Up When You Can’t Find the Perfect Apartment
With all family members, even the furry ones, you have to compromise. That means you might have to give up one luxurious amenity to give your pet the life they deserve. There are plenty of pet-friendly apartments out there just waiting for you and your pet. Just keep looking and you find one to call home in no time!
