What Pet-Friendly Landlords Need to Know

Here are some suggestions for landlords who are interested in developing a pet-welcome policy.

* Meet the animals to make sure they are well-trained and socialized. Have tenants offer references from previous landlords.

* Make sure tenants are willing to pay or offer to pay an additional pet deposit and to cover any damages.

* Make sure tenants have a resume about their pets, including vaccination records, licensing information, spay and neuter certificates and schedule of regular veterinarian visits.

* Tenants should agree to allow landlord visits after they move in to see that the pets are adjusting well to their new environment.

* Tenants should always be willing to clean up after their pets.