Pets make a house a home — and they make apartment hunting and moving a little more complicated. Here's how to make it smooth.
Finding a pet-friendly rental
- Ask about pet limits, weight and breed restrictions up front.
- Know the full cost: pet deposit, one-time pet fee and monthly pet rent.
- Bring a "pet résumé": vaccination records, spay/neuter proof, training certificates and a reference from a past landlord.
- An apartment locator can filter for pet policies quickly.
Assistance animals are different from pets — see ESA letters for your rights.
Before moving day
- Update microchip info and ID tags with your new address and phone.
- Get records and refills from your vet; find a new vet near your new home.
- Leave crates and carriers out for a few weeks so pets get comfortable with them.
- Keep feeding and walking routines as normal as possible.
On moving day
- Set up a closed-door "quiet room" (or have a friend or daycare watch them).
- Put a sign on the door so movers don't let pets out.
- Never transport pets in a moving truck's cargo area.
Settling in
Pet-proof the new place, unpack their bed, toys and bowls first, and keep cats indoors for at least two weeks. Check that your renters insurance liability covers your pet — some policies exclude certain breeds.
By the Connected Renter team. General information only — not legal or financial advice.
