Are you moving into a new apartment with your loyal four-legged friend? Make sure they put their best paw forward by creating a pet resume.
A pet resume, similar to a resume you would create for a job application, is a summary of your pet’s best qualities. It’s an opportunity to demonstrate that you are a responsible owner and your pet won’t cause any problems.
Many pet-friendly properties require a pet resume. Even if it’s not required, sending one in with your application will put you in good standing with the landlord or property manager. This document can also be helpful if you are trying to persuade a property owner that currently has a no pet policy.
When writing your resume, it’s important to keep in mind the reasons why property managers would be hesitant to accept pets. Be sure to acknowledge that your pet will not do any of the following:
A barking dog or meowing cat that roams the property can be disruptive to the neighborhood. This is especially true in a small apartment complex environment. The property manager doesn’t want to deal with complaints from your neighbors.
If not properly cleaned and cared for, animals can carry diseases or unwanted insects. These unwelcome guests, such as fleas, can spread throughout the property. Be sure to include a health summary to show your pet is clean and cared for.
Landlords want to protect their property investment. Having a pet in the home often adds to additional wear and tear. They also require a deeper clean when you move out. To compensate for this, many landlords and property managers ask for a pet deposit or pet rent. If you are trying to convince them to allow pets, try offering to pay one of these.
Including all of these basics will ensure you have a well-rounded resume for your landlord or property manager to review.
Click To Download Pet Resume Example PDF
A picture can be worth a thousand words. Include a playful photo of your pet on the resume so the property manager can fall in love with them. You may want to choose one that shows they get along with kids or seniors. A cute photo might be enough to convince them you’re a good fit for the apartment.
Introduce your pet by their name. If for some reason the name is crude or offensive by nature, you may want to make up a different name for the resume.
Include your dog’s age on the resume. Keep in mind the property manager might be more willing to let your pet stay if they are fully grown rather than a puppy.
Listing a breed is especially important if you have a dog. Some properties restrict certain breeds. They are legally allowed to restrict any breeds they want unless you have a service dog. Be aware of what these breed restrictions are. If your dog is on the list, consider setting up an in-person meeting with the property manager so they can get to know your dog.
Another important consideration is the weight and size of your pet. The pet’s size indicates how much damage they can do on the property. Not knowing your pet’s temperament, this is often the main item your property manager will consider.
Include the sex of your pet. This shouldn’t impact the property manager’s decision, but it helps give them a better overview of your pet.
Give a brief history of health. This should include if your pet was spayed or neutered and what shots and vaccines they have received. The property manager may also ask for proof of vaccines. If you don’t have a copy on hand, you can get one from your vet. A healthy pet is less likely to bring diseases into the apartment.
Some questions to consider:
Have you taken your dog to training classes? Does your cat respond to your commands? Be sure to include all your pet’s training and skills. If you plan to keep attending a training course, include this as well. Landlords and property managers love a well-behaved pet.
Some questions to consider:
In this part of the resume, you can explain your relationship with your pet. Be sure to include how long you’ve owned them if they have lived in an apartment before if they are an indoor or outdoor pet if they shed, what their favorite pastime is and what you love most about them.
Some questions to consider:
Explain your care routine so your property manager knows they will be well cared for. Include your usual routine.
Some questions to consider:
It’s always helpful to have others to back up everything you’ve stated on your resume. Get in contact with these people ahead of time so they are expecting a call. Some references include a past landlord, pet sitter, veterinarian or neighbor.
Last but not least, be sure to include your full name and contact information in case your pet resume gets separated from your rental application.
Fill out your pet’s information to create their own personalized resume.
Fill out your pet’s information to create their own personalized resume.
Highlight a few qualifications including training, skills and/or health attributes that make them a good choice. Write these one or two-word descriptors in the spaces below.
neutered • house broken • vaccinated • microchipped • insured
A brief paragraph of your pet’s history including how long you’ve owned them, if they are adopted and their favorite pastime.
A paragraph about how you care for your pet including walks, bathing and where they stay when you’re gone.
Instructions:
Click your resume to open in a new window.
Then, right-click the image to save.
I’d love for you to meet the pet!
Finding the perfect new apartment for you and your pet can be a challenge. Be sure to filter your searches by “pet-friendly” apartments to set yourself up for success. With your pet resume in hand, your future property manager will fall in love with your pet in no time.
Alex Heinz is a writer with experience in a variety of industries from tech to lifestyle. Her work has appeared in Business Insider, TechCo and PopSugar. She's lived in a handful of large cities including New York and San Diego, giving her first-hand knowledge of the ins and outs of renting. In her spare time, you can find her exploring new hikes with her dog.
