PET-FRIENDLY HOUSING

“PETS ARE WELCOME” Pet-friendly Rental RESOURCEs

Many animals are surrendered to shelters each year simply because their owners have difficulty finding pet-friendly rental properties. Lollypop Farm knows that pets are part of your family, and wants to make sure that you can stay together in your happy home. Our Pets Are Welcome resource list links renters to helpful apartment/house rental search engines that provide up to the minute information on the properties that allow pets.

Tips for Renters

  • Allow as much time as possible for your housing search. It may take longer to find a pet-friendly rental and you don’t want to be caught in a situation where you don’t have housing for you or your pet!
  • Research pet-friendly rental listings online, in your local community apartment guidebook, or through recommendations from friends and family.
  • Be an exemplary pet owner and renter. Follow your rental property pet rules and work with your pet’s behavior to prevent property damage (see our Pet Peeves Behavior resources). Have your pet spayed or neutered to reduce the likelihood of behavior issues, and always clean up after your pet. Not only will this keep your current landlord happy, you may also be able to get a letter of reference from them if you need to relocate.
  • Create a pet resume. This gives you a chance to highlight the positive aspects of your family pet and to show how you will be a responsible pet owner. And if you invite landlords to meet your groomed, well-behaved pet, they’ll learn in person how much a part of your family they are!
  • Don’t sign a lease that says “no pets allowed” even if the landlord says it’s ok. Make sure that any written “no pets” language is crossed off or replaced with wording that allows your pet. You and the landlord should initial the changes.
  • Expect a pet deposit or additional monthly fee with a pet-friendly rental. Make sure they are outlined clearly in the lease and that you budget for them in your pet expenses.
  • If your landlord says you and your pet must leave, review the terms of your lease. If you believe you need help negotiating your rights, start here.
  • Seek help if you find yourself faced with eviction or the loss of your pet. Ask friends and family for help with temporary housing or care of your pet while you search for new housing.
  • For more information and resources on renting with your pet, visit mypitbullisfamily.org/tips-for-families.


Housing Assistance