Why is it so hard to find pet friendly communities when moving? Many communities turn away pet owners mainly because they have had bad experiences with pets in the past: owners not picking up after restroom use, pets not properly contained, noisy, violent behavior, damage, and the list goes on. People looking for pet friendly housing must be able to sell themselves as responsible pet owners, who are committed to providing responsible pet care and being responsible neighbors.

If you are thinking about moving and own a pet, or are thinking of getting a pet, take the time to research your options. Check out the neighborhoods, look for dog parks and local vets. Seek out pet friendly realtors, local humane societies, animal rescue groups, and pet friendly guidebooks for communities that accept your type of pet, breed, and size.

Start looking as soon as you know that you are moving. A good time frame is at least six weeks ahead of time. The larger the pet, the harder it is to find a place. Even if pets are allowed where you currently live, recheck with your association board, management, or landlord before getting a pet.

Gather proof that qualifies you as responsible, and make a pet resume. Ask for a referral letter from your current landlord/community board association, your veterinarian, and neighbors. Make copies of your pet's training certificates, and achievements, i.e. AKC show dog, affiliated with pet therapy organizations, a rescue team member for the fire/police/military department. Collect receipts of recent vaccinations, flea-control purchases, and grooming. If your pet is neutered, include that as well. A neutered pet is calmer, healthier, and less likely to roam, therefore a less of a nuisance.

Get the essentials and be prepared to negotiate. Ask to review the bylaws and pet policy. For a recent condo conversion, a once pet friendly policy may have changed to a no-pet policy. When negotiating, be prepared to pay a little extra. Most places ask for a deposit for pets, of which part or all may be nonrefundable. Those willing to sign a 1-year lease have priority over short-term lookers.

Note: Even if a condominium allows pets, it doesn't mean that the landlord will, and vice versa, some condos allow owners to have pets and not renters. Submit your pet's resume and try to come to an agreement.

If accepted, get it in writing. A verbal agreement is useless if the landlord, management, or association changes their mind or changes hands. Keep a copy of your condo bylaws and add a pet addendum to your rental agreement. Make sure all parties sign the agreement and it is kept in a safe place.

Be honest! Regardless of rules, many tenants, even owners, try to smuggle in their treasured pets where no-pets apply. A quick slip and "Fritzy" is out the door and exposed, and too often to a nosey a and unsupportive neighbor. Usually such actions result in eviction, a fine, and worse -- forced to give up their pet to a shelter.

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If you are thinking of moving in the Miami area, contact your local pet friendly realtor Tracey Schmitt for expert advice. Tracey Schmitt is a realtor with Remax Ultra Realty Group in Aventura, Florida. She specializes in helping owners of pets find homes, whether it is for vacation rentals, leasing, to buy, or sell Tracey is the go-to realtor. Go to petfriendlyrealtor for more information on local parks, vets, sitters, pet societies, groomers, trainers, and more! You may email her at tschmitt@remax.net.

Published: December 13, 2005

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