Renting an apartment may not seem like a large endeavor until you throw pets into the mix. Whether you own a tiny dog or a large mutt, you have to make sure you cover certain bases to make sure you choose a living space that is both comfortable for you and your pet. Here are things to look for when choosing an apartment that both you and your pet can thrive in.
Location in the complex
Since apartments are in close proximity to one another, you want to choose as quiet a location as possible where you have minimal neighbors. This is especially true if you have a dog that likes to bark. This way, if your pet makes noise during the day or night when you are away, you are less likely to encounter a disgruntled neighbor who has been bothered by noise. Try to choose either a top floor corner or bottom floor corner apartment so you can avoid having neighbors on all sides.
If your dog loves to run around the house, consider using glue-on plastic nail covers or slip-on booties so that you not only protect the floor, but so that you reduce the scratching pitter-patter for any neighbors below you. This can make coexisting with your neighbors more pleasant should you have a vocal or rowdy pooch.
Potty areas
If at all possible, try to choose an apartment that has grassy areas where your dog can do their business if you need to take them outside. Make sure you check with the apartment manager to determine which areas are yours to use so you don't interfere with a neighbor's property, and learn where and how you should dispose of your pet's waste. Some apartment complexes will allow you to place a gate or kennel in your yard so your dog can be outdoors during the day, so clear this with your apartment manager before you rent to avoid confusion later.
Stairs or elevators
If your pooch has issues going up and down stairs or you worry about using an elevator to reach your apartment, try to choose a complex with all ground-level floors or choose a bottom-floor corner apartment (the noise factor being addressed again) for the easiest access for your pet. If you can, choose an apartment with an outdoor-facing door so you can go in and out of your residence with ease without the worry of taking your pet down a hallway to go to the bathroom or run errands with you.
Other pets
You may want to inquire about the other pets that live in the apartment complex so you won't be surprised if your neighbor's cat runs outside and alerts your curious dog. You should know if potential neighbors own dogs so you can prepare your own dog for socialization and to prevent unwanted ill encounters during walks or potty breaks. Ask if there are any breeds of dog in the apartment complex that alarm you, such as dobermans or pitbulls, so you can take measures to protect your own dog appropriately during chance meetings.
Living in an apartment with your dog means you need to choose a complex that can allow you and your dog to coexist peacefully together and with neighbors. Talk with a professional, like Advanced Realty, to see what else you can do to find the right kind of apartment for you and your pet.
Share