Make Renting Fair – Let Pets Rent

Stitched by: Britt

Pattern designed by: Pattern by "Make It - Leutenegger". Words by ShelterSA and myself.

The last property my partner and I rented stated in the contract that we were allowed an outside pet. After three years of renting, we decided to get a puppy. We spoke directly to the landlord, with whom we had a good relationship, and they initially said yes. We made all the arrangements, purchased all the bits and pieces and were eagerly awaiting the puppy’s arrival. The day before we were due to collect the puppy, the landlord, influenced by the real estate agent, back flipped on us and changed their mind. We had to turn down the puppy (luckily it found another home) and it was absolutely heartbreaking. We were respectful tenants, did everything we were asked and were prepared to take full responsibility and pay for any damage, but it wasn’t enough and there was nothing we could do about it.

Pets are a very important part of people’s lives. Pets are being surrendered to the RSPCA every year and some are euthanised because they cannot be rehomed.

Private renters should be allowed to bring pets into their homes without the need to pay an additional ‘pet bond’. There is no discrimination for families with young children, and it could be argued that kids can do just as much or even more damage than a pet!

#MakeRentingFair #PositivePetPolicy @ShelterSA