People looking into apartments and condos may find it very difficult to uncover pet friendly buildings. Thankfully there are online services now that will help you network within communities to find that perfect place for you and spot. Additionally there are things you can do to improve your chances of obtaining pet friendly housing.

For one, if you read an exciting ad but it doesnt specify a pet policy, ask immediately. If the owner indicates that the building is a pet-free zone, then dont try to sneak yourMr. snugglesin. You could end up evicted and having to pay a penalty besides. Overall its easier to find cat housing than dog housing (eh hem...you cannot say your "cat" learned to bark).

On the other hand some owners will bend the rules, or may not openly advertise that they have pet allowances. When you find such a landlord, please treat him or her with kindness and be a responsible pet owner. So doing will make it easier for other furry-friend owners to rent in the future. How? Make sure you keep the rental free of animal smells or stains, for one. Also know your pet. If your dog tends to be aggressive, then walk him when you know the halls are clear of other renters.

If you do find a complex that allows pets, make sure that includes YOUR type of pet. Dont just assume. For example, we once lived in a place in Boston that allowed pets but not rabbits. In fact, inside city limits rabbits were illegal because theyre a type of rodent. We ended up miserable and having to find a home for fuzzbucket before our landlord turned him into Hasenpfeffer. This is just one example. Other building regulations may limit the size of a pet (in pounds), or the breed of pet (like pit bulls). Get your specifications, and get them in writing.

Note that pet-friendly housing often comes at a price. Its not unusual to have a $300+ security deposit (sometimes nonrefundable) for the privilege of keeping your pet with you. Beyond that, some buildings charge an extra monthly fee on top of your rent. No, youre not allowed to shave the cat and call it a baby.

When youre shopping around for pet-friendly apartments, be prepared ahead of time. Get copies of your pets shot history from your veterinarian and have proof if your pet is spayed or neutered. This will speed the process for renting your new space.

On average in areas where apartments and condos are fairly populated it can take 6 months to find a space for you and your pet, so plan accordingly.