Dogs Trust Launches 'Lets With Pets'

The difficult business of finding suitable rental property when you are a pet owner, is back in the news. Pet owners have always struggled to find understanding landlords who, historically, have been wary of allowing pets and the damage they might cause. Now, however, an over-supplied rental market is putting pressure on landlords to reconsider.

Earlier this year Dogs Trust reported an increase in pet owners forced to downsize or move to rented accommodation. With lettings agencies and private landlords often hesitant to allow pets in their properties, Dogs Trust rehoming centres reported a nationwide influx of pets reluctantly handed over by owners forced to downsize.

Yesterday the charity launched a new campaign to reduce the number of pets abandoned when owners are forced to move into rented accommodation.

The Lets with Pets campaign aims to encourage landlords and letting agencies to accept pets, offering pet owners the opportunity to keep their beloved pets, while amplifying rental income for struggling buy-to-let landlords. The campaign website provides advice booklets and practical tips for landlords and tenants alike.

According to Dogs Trust CEO, Clarissa Baldwin:

"Our research reveals that whilst three quarters of UK landlords surveyed said they would allow pets, in actual fact 54% of pet owners were unable to find any suitable rented accommodation.

Pet owners who need to rent privately are being forced to live in unsuitable properties, or rent with their pets without consent from their landlord. Some owners even go to extreme lengths such as hiding their dog in the bath or under the bed when visited by their landlord!"

Among tips to would-be tenants, the Lets With Pets site suggests:

  • Offering to pay a larger deposit to cover any potential damage.


  • Getting a pet reference from a previous landlord.


  • Offering to introduce the pet to the landlord.