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Embracing pet-friendly rentals in Tasmania
Dogs' Homes of Tasmania backs pet-friendly rentals amid rising pet surrenders due to rental issues.
At Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, we’ve seen firsthand the heartbreak caused when beloved pets are surrendered due to rental restrictions. That’s why we fully support the efforts of Companion Animal Network Australia (Australia CAN) to promote pet-friendly rental policies through their Rent with Pets program. As proud members of Australia CAN, we are committed to advocating for housing solutions that keep pets with their families, where they belong.
Rising pet surrenders due to rental issues
The issue is becoming increasingly urgent. In May 2024, 15% of the dogs surrendered to Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania were given up because their owners couldn’t find pet-friendly rentals—a concerning increase from earlier in the year. As rental and housing pressures continue to mount, more families are facing the agonising choice between securing a place to live and keeping their pets.
New laws under Tasmania’s Residential Tenancy Act 1997 offer a glimmer of hope, making it harder for landlords to unreasonably refuse rental applications from pet owners.
However, despite these positive steps, opposition from the Real Estate Institute of Tasmania (REIT) threatens to roll back these protections, citing concerns for property investors.
Why pet-friendly rentals benefit everyone
Australia CAN’s Rent with Pets program highlights the many benefits of allowing pets in rental properties—benefits that extend to landlords as well:
- More tenants: Pet-friendly properties attract a broader pool of potential tenants and are often rented out more quickly.
- Long-term tenancy: Pet owners tend to stay longer in rentals to avoid the difficulty of finding another pet-friendly property.
- Tenant wellbeing: Tenants with pets typically report higher levels of satisfaction and better mental health, which can lead to better care of the property.
- Positive reputation: Landlords who welcome pets often gain a reputation as compassionate and accommodating, which can attract more responsible tenants.
What you can do to help
At Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, we’re urging everyone—whether you’re a tenant, landlord, or property manager—to get involved and support pet-friendly rentals. Here’s how you can make a difference:
- Learn more: Visit Rent with Pets to find out how we can work together to reduce pet surrenders due to rental issues.
- Promote responsible pet ownership: Follow the program’s checklist for responsible pet ownership and share it with others.
- Support pet-friendly rentals: Landlords, consider requesting pet references and adopting policies that welcome pets. Here’s how to write a pet resume.
- Share your story: Share your experiences with renting with pets and help raise awareness.
- Spread the word: Download Rent with Pets resources and share them on social media with the hashtag #rentwithpets.
By supporting initiatives like Rent with Pets, we can create a more inclusive rental market in Tasmania, ensuring that no pet has to lose their home due to restrictive rental policies. Let’s work together to keep pets with the families who love them.
