Pet Screening Checklist for Landlords

Recommended by the American Humane Society

The following questions will assist you in screening a prospective tenant and their pet. You should also actually see the pet before you rent, especially dogs. A well-groomed, well behaved pet is one of the best signs of a responsible pet owner.

Screening questions for all pets

What type of pet do you have? _______
How long have you owned your pet? _______
Can you provide a letter from your veterinarian confirming that each pet is in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations? ______
Can you provide a written reference for your pet from your current landlord? ______
Has there been any damage or complaints about your pet at your current address? ______
Does your pet have any medical or behavioral problems? If so, what treatment or training are you using? _____________________________________
Do you agree to a lease contingent on your pet's behavior? _______
Who will care for your pet when you are on vacation or during a medical emergency? _____________________________________________
Do you agree to pay a pet security deposit of $ __________
Do you agree to additional rent of $ _________

For Cat Owners

Has your cat been spayed or neutered? ______
Do you keep your cat indoors? ______
Does your cat use the litter box that you provide? ______
Does your cat wear an identification tag and license tag? ______
Is your cat registered with the local animal care and control authority? ______
How often do you treat your cat for fleas and ticks? ____________

For Dog Owners

Have you and your dog completed a dog training class? ______
Has your dog been spayed or neutered? ______
Is your dog licensed and wearing an identification tag? ______
Do you keep your dog on a leash when you go for walks? ______
Do you always make a point of immediately cleaning up after your dog? ______
Is your dog housetrained? ______
How much time does your dog spend alone each day? ____________
How often do you treat your dog for fleas and ticks? ____________