Trouble Finding A Place To Rent Because Of Your Dog?
Finding an affordable and comfortable apartment can be an incredibly time-consuming process. Add a large dog to the mix, and it’s next to impossible.
That is what Faye, owner of a 57 pound lab mix, experienced during her SoCal area apartment search where she began by looking at pet-friendly apartments.
"I couldn't find a single place that would accept my dog. She's perfectly well-behaved, but a lot of the places that list themselves as pet-friendly had restrictions about types of dogs they would accept, as well as weight restrictions," she said. "Eventually we concluded we weren't going to be able to find a rental because of our dog. Now we're looking at shared rooms."
It’s not uncommon for apartment communities — even those that are dog-friendly — to have weight and breed restrictions. So, what’s the owner of a large dog to do?
Look into Single-Family Rentals
Large apartment complexes are most likely to have size and breed restrictions in their pet policies. Landlords of individually owned properties are more likely to be flexible and accept large dog breeds on a case-by-case basis. Use key words like "pet friendly" or "dog friendly" in your search filter to narrow down rental listings. Or simply drive around and look in people's windows for "For Rent" signs.
Plan Extra Time for the Search
Understand that finding a renal with a large dog may be easy. Allot additional time to find the right home for you and your dog. If you'd normally give yourself one month to find an apartment, double that to two since a good majority of rentals won't be pet-friendly.
Have All Your Documents Prepared
Gather proof that your responsible. Have your pet records ready to ensure the landlord that your dog has all their shots, etc. And if your dog is a well trained dog, offer to bring them by the rental office for a meet and greet. It is very hard for a landlord to look at a sweet, well mannered dog in the eye and say no.
Be Flexible
Finding a rental with a large dog may require flexibility on your end. Understand that you may be required to pay an additional pet deposit, pay extra for insurance that covers your dog's breed or even rent on a month-to-month basis until your pup earns the landlord's approval.
>> Do you have any tips for finding a rental with a large dog? Share your experience with us in the comments below.
