Interesting new way pet-owners can secure rentals

More than two-thirds of renters are at risk of being refused a home due to their love of their pets. Here’s how to better your chances of getting and keeping a home for you and your pet.

Pet behaviourist and dog trainer, Lara Shannon reveals interesting new way tenants can avoid discrimination if they are a pet owner.

Approximately 69 per cent of Australian households are pet-owners, meaning more than two-thirds of renters could be at a higher risk of being refused a property.

Unless it is an assistant animal, landlords can refuse pets without requirement to provide a reason, with laws or guidelines varying from state to state.

This refusal can lead to pets ending up in animal shelters and tenants struggling to secure a home.

Lara Shannon, pet behaviourist and certified dog trainer gives tips on how to secure a rental while being a pet owner.

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With the current rental crisis engufing Australia, the extra barrier could cause more strife for renters.

Renowned animal championg and pet behaviourist Lara Shannon says there are some things owners can do to be proactive when looking for a new rental or looking to deal with any issues that might crop up with a current rental in regards to pets.

Ms Shannon revealed an interesting tip for pet-owners looking to secure a rental.

“Creating a ‘pet resume’ can help,” she said.

“Include details of your pet such as their breed, age and personality – make it personal and fun with a cute, friendly photo,”

The certified dog trainer and behaviourist said it is important that pet owners get in early and address any potential concerns a landlord might have in advance.

Ms Shannon suggests a ‘pet resume’ can help ease landlords concerns.

The pet resume should include things like your furry friends behaviour, obedience training and pet care, Ms Shannon advised.

“Proof of pet care including vaccinations, parasite control and grooming schedules and

assurances of how you will pet-proof and maintain the property,” she said.

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Once you secure a rental, Ms Shannon suggests preparing your pet for the move so it doesn’t affect their behaviour and your relationship with your landlord or neighbours.

Preparing your pet for their new home can help prevent complaints or refusal from landlords.

“It is important to help make the transition to their new home as stress free as possible so it doesn’t lead to problems,” she said.

Anxiety or boredom in dogs can cause destructive behaviour including barking, whining, digging or scratching and urinating for cats, Ms Shannon revealed.

“If your dog or cat is food motivated, it’s a good idea to use food or treats to create a positive

association when they arrive at the new place and reward any quiet, calm or inquisitive behaviour when they are there,” she said.

If your dog or cat is food motivated, it's a good idea to use treats to create positive association, Ms Shannon revealed.

New aspects of the property like stairs, slippery floors or different kinds of surfaces in the backyard are something Ms Shannon said to be conscious of.

“Don’t force them into any areas they are uncomfortable with, instead use treats, praise, play or toys to slowly entice them to places and create a positive association,” she said.

Creating a calm space for your pet with their bed, toys, food and water can also assist, the pet behaviourist suggested.

Dogs should settle in before being left alone at their new home to avoid barking or whining when you’re gone.

Ms Shannon said cats should stay inside for three weeks before letting them roam outside, so setting up high perches or a cat-run outside can be a good alternative.

For dogs, Ms Shannon said to let them “settle in fully” before leaving them alone, starting first with only leaving them for short amounts of time.

Leaving the TV or radio on, interactive toys and hidden treats can also provide comfort.

Ms Shannon recommended introducing yourself and your pets to your new neighbours and asking them to let you know if they do hear any barking or scratching when you leave them alone.

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Originally published as Interesting new way pet-owners can secure rentals