9 Simple Ways to Make Your Community More Pet Friendly

For many renters, pets are part of the family. When you’re looking to expand your reach to more renters or make sure your current residents renew their leases, it’s worth evaluating your pet policies and amenities. A pet-friendly environment can help your community stand out and attract renters who love their furry companions.

Ready to make your community “paws-itively” better for two-legged and four-legged residents alike? Try these nine steps to increase your community’s appeal to animal lovers.

1. Treat your community’s pets

Keep a supply of pet treats in the leasing office in case you receive any four-legged visitors. Stock up on healthy biscuits for dogs. For cats, offer catnip and small toys that owners can take back to their apartments.

2. Start things off on the right foot (or paw)

When new residents move in, stop by to welcome them — and their pets — to your community, and consider bringing a special treat for cats and dogs. This welcome visit is the perfect opportunity to share a list of local resources for pet owners, such as veterinarians, dog walkers, and pet supply stores in the area. This information may be especially helpful for residents who are new to your neighborhood.

Want to go a step further? Partner with local pet businesses to give out welcome kits that include essentials like pet bowls or leashes.

3. Keep pets cool

When those temps rise, make sure your four-legged residents stay comfortable! Keep a bowl of water outside the leasing office for dogs in your community, and be sure to refill the bowl as needed.

Do you have a dog park, pet relief area, or other type of pet-friendly outdoor space, such as a courtyard or community grilling area? Provide sufficient shade in hot weather by installing canopies or shade sails, adding a free-standing patio umbrella, or planting trees for the future.

4. Make it easy for owners to pick up waste

Nobody wants to see or step in dog poop, so make it as convenient as possible for pet owners to clean up after Fido. All your residents will thank you — those with and those without a canine companion.

Place trash cans and pet waste bags throughout your community, including all outdoor spaces where dogs are allowed. Make sure to regularly restock the bags. Not only will pet owners appreciate the convenience, but these pet stations will also serve as a friendly reminder to pick up after their dogs.

5. Invite four-legged friends to your community events

Does your community host regular events for your residents? Don’t forget about the pets who live there, too. Consider holding a pet-centered activity in your community. For example, organize a pet costume contest. Post photos of the contestants on your social media channels, and let your residents to vote for their favorites.

Want to build community among your pet-owning residents? Invite your residents and their dogs to “yappy hours” to enjoy refreshments and make friends with other dogs and their owners. Or, partner with an obedience school to host classes for your residents, or put on a charity walk to benefit a local animal shelter.

6. Spotlight your furry residents on social media

Who can’t resist the cute face of a cat or dog? Celebrate your community’s pets by posting pictures and stories on your social media channels. Not only will this help freshen up your feed, you’ll also make it clear to current and future residents that their fur babies are loved and welcomed in your community.
To get started, try introducing new four-legged residents when they move in. Or, offer a recurring series, like Pet of the Month, Meowy Monday, or Woofs & Whiskers Wednesday.

7. Expand your pet-friendly amenities

From dog parks to pet-washing stations, pet-focused amenities are an effective way to attract and retain pet owners. Fence off part of your outdoor space as a dog park or pet relief station, designate a play area for four-legged residents, or install large sinks and hoses in common spaces to make it easier for pet owners to bathe their pets.

And remember that amenities can go beyond physical spaces for pets and their owners. Consider partnering with local groomers, pet-sitting businesses, and veterinary clinics to give your residents access to discounted services.

8. Reconsider your pet policies

A pet-friendly community isn’t just about the features and services you offer — it’s also about lifting exclusions on pets and their owners. Take a second look at your pet policies. What are your current requirements around species, breeds, weight, height, or number of pets? Do you require pet insurance, charge residents a pet deposit, or assess a monthly pet fee?

Evaluate which policies are essential to maintaining your community’s standards and budget, and consider lifting or relaxing other restrictions to boost resident retention and attract new residents.

For example, consider opting for a one-time pet fee rather than monthly pet rent. This will go a long way in lifting the financial burden on long-term residents with pets. Make sure any pet-related financial requirements are reasonable and align with the actual costs your community may incur from its four-legged residents.

Keep in mind that larger dogs can be just as well-behaved and considerate as smaller ones. Or, try alternative means, such as checking references and using pet screenings, to evaluate risks posed by incoming pets. Similarly, it’s common for communities to limit pets to one or two per unit, which can leave renters with three or four cats out in the cold.

9. Don’t forget about your non-canine pets

While dogs are the most popular pet, cats come in a close second and are a popular choice for apartment dwellers in small spaces. To appeal to feline residents and their owners, try installing windowsills in your units for irresistible napping opportunities. In high-rise buildings, you may want to ensure windows and balconies are secure and cat-proof. Or, consider giving your residents the flexibility to create their own apartment “catio.”

And beyond dogs and cats, consider pets of all types and stripes. What are your community’s policies on reptiles, birds, and fish? Make this information clear on your listings and your community website.