FIND HOUSING
IT’S NOT EASY, BUT IT CAN BE DONE!
Finding housing when you own a dog whose breed is considered by the housing industry to be "aggressive" can be difficult. Difficult, but not impossible. Here are some things you can do to help make it happen:
Give yourself plenty of time to find a place to go. It can take months to find housing that meets your needs.
Try looking at rental listings on Craigslist and/or posting your own "housing wanted" ad.
Check the national database at www.mypitbullisfamily.com.
Contact a realtor. Most apartment complexes have breed restrictions. A realtor can help you find a property owned by a private landlord who may make considerations on a case by case basis.
DO NOT LIE ABOUT THE BREED OF YOUR DOG. This can result in your being evicted once you move in when the landlord finds out. It can also make things harder for people in the future, as landlords will be sure to address that issue right off the bat and refuse to budge on that stipulation.
Obedience and crate train your dog. A well behaved dog can sell himself. Crate training can give peace of mind to potential landlords that your dog will be contained, and not destructive or able to escape, when you are not home.
Make a "resume" binder for your dog. Include training certificates, CGC or TDI certificates, letters of recommendation from your trainer, veterinarian, former landlord, pet sitters, and friends. Include pictures of your dog interacting positively with people of all ages, and, if you can, other dogs and animals.
Ask the potential landlord to meet your dog prior to making a decision. As stated above, a well behaved dog can sell himself.
If you can, offer to pay a good faith pet deposit over and above any that are required. This one might be hard to pull off if you are low on funds, but if you can, make the offer.
Show proof of renter's insurance or an insurance quote to the potential landlord. Once the lease is signed, have a certificate of insurance sent to them. Show them that you are doing everything you can to protect them from liability should the unthinkable happen. This way no one can ever say the landlord was not diligent in vetting you and your dog prior to letting you move in.
WHERE TO LOOK LOCALLY:
MAA COMMUNITIES- Pet friendly apartment complexes that welcome all breeds! Properties in Fredericksburg, Northern, Virginia, Maryland, and DC.
MUIRFIELD WOODS APARTMENTS- Located in Sterling, VA
LORI LOVEJOY- Realtor in Virginia who will help you find a breed friendly single family home or townhouse.