Rental Crisis Affects Our Pets

G'day Dog Lovers,

Take a look at the media release below from RSPCA Qld - it's about how difficult it is to find pet-friendly accommodation in the current rental market. Sadly, more and more animals are being abandoned as a result.

ANIMALS AND GREY NOMADS SUFFER!

Increasing restrictions on pets at private and council caravan parks, picnic spots, parks and beaches are placing even more pressure on RSPCA Shelters.

“These restrictions particularly affect the so called “grey nomads,” said RSCA Qld spokesman Michael Beatty. “Many of them take to the open road in their caravans with their pets, only to find that the local “no pets” policies make their lives all but impossible. By and large these people are highly responsible pet owners who want their pets with them because they’re part of the family. There will always be a very small minority who do the wrong thing but why should the majority suffer. Education is the key, not blanket bans.”

In Europe, the United States and Canada, pets are part of the country’s social fabric and accepted members of the community. Consequently the animals are more socialised and cause fewer problems.

RSPCA Qld is also bearing the brunt of the economic crisis with many people being forced to move or downsize and then finding they cannot get pet friendly accommodation.

“Landlords and Body Corporates are imposing more and more restrictions on potential tenants for the simple reason that they can”, continued Mr Beatty. “The sad thing is that there are very simple ways to ensure that animals and their owners do not abuse the property. Simple agreements can be drawn up and we advise all pet owners looking for accommodation to make certain they have written references attesting to their pets’ behaviour and cleanliness. Landlords can arrange an interview with the animal and family so they can see for themselves the animal is safe and clean and the owners responsible. But generally people who look after their pets are more likely to look after the property. It shows they have responsibility.”

The problem is State wide and by no means restricted to Brisbane. The irony is that a recent study showed that “pet friendly” apartments and town houses sold for up to 25% more than non pet friendly real estate. New apartment buildings are being constructed with pet friendly features and people wishing to downsize and take their pets are taking advantage of the trend.

“There simply aren’t enough of them,” continued Mr Beatty. “We would urge landlords to have compassion. Many families are devastated when they have to give up beloved pets that have been part of the family for years. The RSPCA has sample pet agreement pamphlets that will help landlords and tenants. Responsible pet owners make responsible tenants.”