Check Local Ordinances and Homeowner's Association Rules
When you're looking for a home, either rented or purchased, you'll need to follow the rules of the community that you're entering. Most areas have general ordinances on cleaning up after your dog when you go for a walk. They'll also have leash laws, and they might have other ordinances on what kinds of animals you can have. If you live in a condo or townhouse, you will also have a homeowners association, which will tell you whether or not you can have a pet at all. Before you buy or start renting, make sure you know all of the rules that you will be expected to abide by for the length of your stay.
Find a Pet-Friendly Realtor
If you're looking to find someone who knows the neighborhoods that you'll be looking in, find someone who understands the needs of the type of pet that you have and knows the ordinances of the area. Realtors who are unfamiliar with your particular pet might say that a building in the backyard would be a great place for your goat, but if they don't actually know about what the animal needs, as well as the type of buildings that could house a goat, they're just making guesses.
Tips For Finding a Pet-Friendly Apartment
When you want to find an apartment, you need to be aware that many apartments have no-pet policies, or they only allow certain types of pets. For instance, some apartments will allow cats but not dogs. Others will only allow dogs under a certain weight. If you're looking for an apartment, you'll have a better chance of finding one if you're aware of their policy. But don't worry. There are plenty of housing options animal lovers can consider. You also need to be aware that you might have to show proof of vaccinations, and it might be wise to show that you're a responsible pet owner. If you have a current landlord, see if you can get a letter of recommendation that tells how you take care of your pet, cleaning up after it when it makes a mess.
Consider Your Pet's Needs
When you're looking for a house or apartment, think about the amount of space that your pet will need now and in the future. If you have a puppy mastiff, he might only need a small space now, but in a very short time, he'll need a large outdoor space where he can play. You'll also need to think about the materials used in the house. Animals have hooves, claws, and mouths, and you'll need to either train them to avoid activities that can damage things like hardwood floors, or you'll need to have materials that aren't easily damaged.
Whether your pet is a cat, dog, pig, or snake, you love your animal. And it makes sense for you to find the housing that will fit your whole family's needs. Do some research, and you'll find the perfect living situation that fits your budget and your lifestyle.