Published: September 30, 2006 11:49 pm         

Paw prints: Research housing when preparing to move

TERRE HAUTE — Your boss at work has just given you the news that you are being transferred. Soon, you will begin to plan the move for you, your family, and (hopefully) your pet(s). If you plan to rent, temporarily or permanently, you may have a pet that you need to consider when searching for a new home. Many pet owners feel pressed to give up their companion animals when moving, whether across town or across the country. But before you rush to the local animal shelter with your pet (if you are a responsible pet owner), spend some time researching animal-friendly housing.

Be sure to allow yourself enough time to find your new home. Plan ahead about six weeks, if possible, to begin the search. Contact real estate agents, rental agencies, and check newspaper ads. See if the community that you are moving to has an apartment guidebook. If so, it might list the apartments or condominiums that allow pets. You can also go to the Humane Society of the United States Web site; they offer links to sites that list animal-friendly apartments across the country.

First, you must recognize why some housing communities don’t allow pets. Some owners have had experiences with residents who had pets that they did not confine or pick up after or left ruined carpets when they moved out. There also is the problem of barking dogs. If the apartment or home that you would like to rent does not allow pets, it’s possible that you might be able to persuade them into letting you keep your pet. It’s important to sell yourself as a responsible pet owner. Let the landlord know that your pet is housebroken or litter-box trained and that you always clean up after your pet.

Obtain documentation that proves you’re a conscientious person when it comes to your pet. Ask your current landlord for a letter of reference. Ask your veterinarian to write a letter that states you are diligent about your pet’s medical care. Show that your pet has been spayed or neutered and is current on vaccinations. Altered pets are calmer and are less likely to cause problems. Offer to bring your pet to meet the landlord or invite him to come by.

Pet owners that are responsible are typically good residents. It’s more difficult for them to search for a place to live so they are more likely to stay longer Pet owners can expect to pay a higher security deposit to cover any damages.. Let your potential landlord know that you expect to abide by the rules … and keep your word!



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Gypsy

Age: baby

Gender: female

Breed: hound mix

Hey! Look at me … I’m so bored I don’t know what to do! I still can’t believe I’m here. I’m sad because I don’t have a family to call my own. But I’m going to stay positive. I know someone will see my adorable picture and rush right over to adopt me. But you’d better hurry; I’m just too cute to hang around here for long. Don’t wait … call about me today at (812) 232-0293. Better yet, come in to see me at the Terre Haute Humane Shelter at 1811 Fruitridge Ave. The shelter is open from noon to 6 p.m. through the week and noon to 4 p.m. on weekends. Sorry: we’re closed on Mondays.