How to write a pet resume (for renting or living in apartments with pets)

How to write a pet resume for renting or living in apartments with pets

Living with a pet in rental accommodation, or in an apartment with management rules which may exclude pets, can be a challenge. A pet resume can help your pet be accepted. The following advice on how to write a pet resume to offer your landlord or real estate agency will help….

What to include in a pet resume

A pet resume provides an opportunity for you to present a summary of your pet’s best qualities and your awareness of your responsibilities as a pet owner.

Consider providing information about the following within your pet’s resume:

1. Formal details for your pet resume

Your dog’s breed if know, age, size and desexed status. If their breed or age is especially suited to apartment-living, be sure to emphasise this. Note: if your pet is microchipped and registered.

2. Pet’s rental history

Discuss any previous rental experience you and your dog have had, providing references if possible. State that you are currently aware and understand the rules and restrictions in the accommodation for which you are applying.

3. Your pet’s health

List your vet’s name and contact details. Mention that your dog is regularly health-checked and vaccinated. Also that your dog’s flea, tick and worming control are kept up to date.

4. Your pet’s behaviour

Mention any aspects of your pet’s behaviour that will make your dog a valued resident. Especially if your pet is:

• Well trained
• Quiet
• Less active or walked regularly
• Friendly towards humans and other animals
• Pets previously kept in rental accommodation with no issues

Learn more about Dog Behaviour Issues
Learn more about Cat Behaviour Issues

5. Your responsibility

Explain the ways that you are a responsible pet owner including:

• Your pet is desexed and healthy, and all medication is up to date.
• Any previous rental experience you have had with your dog and how successful this was.
• That you provide suitable toilet facilities for your dog and, where appropriate, take your dog on toilet breaks. You always clean up after your pet.
• You are aware of your pet’s needs and provide adequate stimulation and training. This may include obedience training and toys for your dog. You also regularly groom your pet or attend a professional groomer.
• Describe your arrangements for your pet when you go to work or on holiday.
• Any commitments you have to animal organisations or charities such as the AWLA.
• Be honest about how many pets you have or intend to keep.
• How much you love and care for your pet.

6. References

Landlords may look favourably on any references you can provide about your pet. These may include:

• Letters from current and previous landlords and/or neighbours.
• Letter from your vet.
• Certificates of training in dog obedience or letters from your dog trainer or groomer.
• A photograph of your pet.

Hopefully these tips have helped you learn how to write a pet resume. Good luck in your new home!

This article, by Dr Jo Righetti, was first published at www.purina.com.au.
More about Dr Jo Righetti.

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Pet-friendly housing
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