Apartment Hunting

Since I recently moved, I know it is hard to take your dogs to a new apartment. Hell, It’s tough enough finding the right apartment in the right location at the right price that will accommodate you and your family.  Things get much more complicated when you have a dog.  Not all landlords or tenant associations allow dogs.  In buildings where dogs are allowed, there are often regulations on the breed or size of the dog.  When looking for the right place for your family and your dogs you need a bit of extra patience and resourcefulness.

Restrictions

When looking for a place to live where you will be allowed to keep your dog, the first thing you need to remember is that when speaking to your prospective landlord or building administrator, the first thing you need to ask is if the building in question has a no dogs policy. There is no point to any further discussion if a no dogs policy in place.  If dogs and pets are allowed, you need to learn what sort of dogs or cats will be considered acceptable.  Some buildings will permit only smaller breeds, if your dog is rather loud and high strung, you may also have a problem.

Logistics

Apart from the logistical concerns of your family, you’ll also need to consider the requirements of your dog.  You apartment should be near a dog park, or at the very least a place where it is safe to take your dog on long regular walks.

Reading Your Contract

Because apartments that allow dogs often do impose restrictions, you will need to be wary of any fine print on your lease contract connected to owning pets.  Some landlords will require an additional damage deposit when pets are involved.  You may also be required to hire a professional cleaning service before vacating the premises.

Many lease contracts and tenant associations have restrictions against dogs that bark excessively, if yours is such a dog, you may have some major headaches down the road.  In many apartments, such a problem is often grounds for eviction.  The bottom line is read your contract thoroughly so that you’ll be prepared for any unpleasant eventualities.

Maintaining the Apartment

Anytime you rent something that is not yours, bear in mind that the owner takes a big risk and places a lot of faith in you.  If you are given the privilege of keeping a dog in an apartment building, don’t take the privilege lightly.  Pick up after your dog, avoid scenarios where your dog can damage the apartment, and make necessary repairs when your dog does.  Don’t give any of your fellow tenants reasons to complain about your dog.  If you can demonstrate that a dog can be kept in an apartment with minimal fuss, and inconvenience, it is good for dog owners everywhere who might be on the hunt for apartments. Make sure you give your dog its space and put your a dog crate during the day to minimize noise or confusion.

Hey…and check out ApartmentFinder, they are a great resource!