Owning a Pet and Renting

Just because you rent, and probably even live in an apartment, it doesn't mean that you can't own a pet. Many renters are go without pets, and a lot of them feel it is because they can't own a pet and rent at the same time. While it's true that some apartment buildings and renters won't allow pets at all, there are plenty of others who will. If you already own a pet or getting one is important to you, you don't worry, there are plenty of options available for you.

Your first step will be to look around for renters who allow pets. Keep in mind that many have restrictions on the size of the pet, and some even have restrictions on what kind of pet you will get. Be sure to ask before assuming that since they allow pets that they will allow any kind of pet. Usually, especially in apartments, pets have to be under a certain weight. This means your options are often limited to cats, small dogs, and other small animals. For many people this is just fine, but if you want to own say a large dog, you will probably have to do a bit more searching.

If you don't already have a pet but you want one, you're next step is start looking into what to get. The most common are cats and dogs. Think about the amount of space you will have in your new home before deciding on what to get. It's not fair to a large dog to be cooped up in a one bedroom apartment with no yard. Look into alternative pet options as well. Hamsters and gerbils are fairly common and generally apartments managers don't mind if you have them. Rabbits too can be a good apartment pet, especially the smaller breeds. Be sure no matter what animal you get, that you check with your apartment manager first. Often there will be a pet deposit that you will need to pay. Also, know what it will take to train your new addition and minimize their impact on apartment wear and tear. Being a good renter means making your pets good renters as well.