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10 Tips to Getting Landlords to Allow Pets

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 18:21:00 -0400

Attempting to find a rental apartment or house that allows pets can be very difficult. A lot of landlords have been burnt by irresponsible pet owners who have left their rentals damaged. However, due to the vacancy rates rising, many landlords are struggling to fill their rental units. They are more likely to say "yes" to a pet now more than ever.

Here are 10 tips to prove your case to a landlord, so you will be able to rent and keep your pet:

1. Be a good pet owner. Before you apply for an apartment or house, ask yourself some simple questions. Do you know how to keep your cat from spraying indoors? What will you do to keep your dog from barking and carrying on when you're not home? Contact your local animal shelter, veterinarian or local training club for information. There is also a wealth of information on the internet. It's your job to provide the proper care, training, attention and exercise for your pet.

2. Be sympathetic to the landlord's concerns. There may be many reasons as to why a landlord does not permit pets in their rental units. It is best to discuss them with the landlord and be understanding.

3. Narrow your search. If you are using an online apartment listing search, check off the box that says "dog" or "cat". This will help you find pet friendly apartments easier.

4. Ask the landlord anyway. Even if a rental listing states that certain pets are not allowed, some landlords will negotiate with you. They may get testy, but this will clue them in on the demand for people with pets in need of housing, and it could nudge them in the direction of allowing pets in the future. A great way to convince a potential landlord, is to set up a meeting with the pet. Encourage the landlord to bring a list of questions or concerns they have about your pet. Be prepared for the meeting, and have your pet under control and nicely groomed. If you prove yourself to be a responsible pet owner, the landlord will also consider you a responsible tenant.

5. Put together a resume for your pet. This shows the landlord that you are serious about renting, and that you have your act together. This is a great way to show just how responsible you are with your pet.

Include the following in your pet's resume:

- Veterinary documents. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on its shots. Having your pet spayed or neutered is also a plus, as this will help to eliminate a lot of behavioral issues.

- A description of your prevention plan for fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, etc.

- An explanation of what your pet does all day. Is he/she crated while you are gone, or left to roam freely? Does your pet get lonely? Do you have a dog walker that will be visiting to take your dog out? Do you provide your cat with toys, beds and scratching posts? Are you good about cleaning up spills and messes?

- Bring along any training class graduation certificates. If your dog has passed through a class or two, this will be a positive way to reassure the landlord that your dog knows the basics.

6. Bring references. Would you go to a job interview without a list of references? Make sure you get a note and contact number from your former landlords and neighbors. This can really help your landlord make their decision more favorable.

7. Offer to pay an extra deposit. Pet deposits are often required by landlords who allow pets. It helps if you can offer slightly more than what they require. Good landlords know that pet deposits, which are refundable, are the best incentive for renters to take extra good care of their rental property. If you can't pay the deposit all up front, offer to make payments.

8. Offer to buy renter's insurance. Many landlords are concerned with their liability, especially if your pet injures another tenant. If you have renter's insurance, the liability portion should cover injuries caused by your pet. Check with your insurer to find out what is covered under your policy.

9. Factor in long-term costs. Many smaller building owners don't impose non-refundable pet deposits (in some states they are illegal). They often shy away from additional pet rent, unless the tenant prefers that over an additional deposit. If the landlord plans to charge you per month for the privelege of having a pet in their rental unit, you will have to factor this into your budget. If you don't want to move within 5 years, a $50 per month pet rent totals $3,000 in 5 years. That's a lot of vet bills!

10. Be a good representative for pet-owners. Don't give wary landlords any reason to complain or not trust pet owners because of damages or messes you left behind after moving out with your pet. Clean up really well before you leave, and this will show the landlord that not all pet owners are irresponsible. Pet owners can be the best tenants to rent to.

Rabies & What You Should Know

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 17:48:00 -0400

Rabies is a deadly disease, and continues to be a problem in many parts of the United States. Rabies virus attacks the nervous system of mammals (warmblooded animals who nurse their young). This means pets, livestock, wildlife and humans are at risk. Rabies is spread mainly through bites from infected animals, but can also be passed by scratches from an infected animal, or if saliva or brain tissue comes in contact with open wounds, skin breaks, or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth, etc). Rabies is fatal once the virus reaches the brain.

Domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, ferrets and farm animals can pick up rabies from wild or stray animals. The most commonly affected wild animals include raccoons, skunks, coyotes, foxes and bats. Stray dogs, cats and ferrets can also pose a problem, as they could have come in contact with wildlife, and may have possibly been exposed to rabies.

How to protect yourself and your family:

1. Avoid contact with ALL wild animals. NEVER attempt to feed or handle any wild animal. Do not "adopt" wild animals as pets.

2.Stay away from stray animals. They may not have been properly vaccinated. If you notice a stray, report it to your local Animal Control or Dog Control Officer.

3. Keep wild animals out of your home. Secure your doors and windows, cap off your chimney with a screen, and close off any other openings in your porch, basement or attic. If you find a wild animal in your house, call your local police to report it.

4. Secure your trash, and any other food items that are stored outdoors. This will keep animals from frequently trying to hang around your home.

How to keep your pets safe:

1. Make sure your pets are always vaccinated against rabies. Dogs, cats, ferrets and select livestock can receive rabies vaccinations and boosters. Contact your local animal shelter to ask about free, or low-cost rabies clinics in your area. Otherwise, consult with your veterinarian about making sure your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations.

2. Keep your pets safe by keeping them on your property. Pets that are allowed to roam are more likely to be at risk of contracting rabies from other animals.

3. Do not feed your pets outdoors. Any leftover food, or scraps, may attract stray animals and wildlife.

Symptoms of Rabies Virus:

A change in behavior is the most consistent sign of an animal that has been exposed to rabies. Signs of rabies include:

- Abnormal daytime activity in animals that are active at night (bats, raccoons, skunks, etc).

- Staggering (appears to act "drunk").

- Weakness and paralysis.

- A change in the sound of the animal's "voice".

- Inability to eat or drink.

- Drooling.

- Convulsions and frothing at the mouth.

The two most common forms of rabies:

Dumb Rabies, in which the animal may hide, become shy, or become unusually approachable. These behaviors may be followed by sluggishness, confusion and depression.

Furious Rabies, is when the exposed animal becomes irritable, excitable and aggressive. At times, these animals seem confused and calm, and then suddenly attack when approached. These animals may also lose all fear and caution for natural enemies.

With each form of rabies, the animal will eventually suffer from paralysis, coma and death.

What should you do if you believe your pet has been bitten or attacked by another animal?

1. Contact your local or state health department right away to report the bite.

2. Contact your local Animal Control or Dog Control Officer to report any information you can about the animal that attacked your pet. If the animal is still at large, the officer will need to capture it for a quarantine period.

3. If the animal is wild, you may need to contact the Department of Environmental Conservation to handle wildlife.

3. Contact your veterinarian to make sure your pet is up-to-date on its rabies vaccination.

What should you do if you, or a family member, has been bitten or attacked by an animal?

1. Wash the wound thoroughly with warm, soapy water.

2. If the animal that attacked you is wild, only attempt to confine it if it is safe to do so. Call Animal Control IMMEDIATELY. If you must kill the animal, do it as a last resort and try not to damage the skull of the animal (the animal's brain tissue may need to be tested for rabies).

3. If the animal is someone's pet, get the owner's information and ask for proof of a current rabies vaccination.

4. Contact your family physician or Emergency Room, to determine if you will need rabies shots.

5. Report the bite to your local or state Health Department.

6. Report the bite to your local ACO or DCO. Dogs, cats or ferrets that have bitten someone must be confined for observation. In New York State, there is a 10day rabies quarantine period for animals that have bitten a human. If the animal is not current on its rabies vaccination, this quarantine must be done at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter.

7. If the animal is wild, you may need to contact the Department of Environmental Conservation to handle wildlife.

For more information about rabies, contact your local veterinarian, animal shelter, department of environmental conservation, or local/state health departments.

Dogs That Chase Cars, People & Other Animals

Sun, 12 Apr 2009 22:51:00 -0400

It's once again Spring, and the Tri-Lakes Humane Society is beginning to receive phone calls in regards to dogs running loose, chasing people and cars.

If your dog is prone to chasing after cars, bicyclists, pedestrians, children or other animals, you should take the situation very seriously. Dogs have a natural "prey" drive, and that is why they love to chase after vehicles, people or other animals. Some dogs are merely trying to get the person or animal to "play" with them by chasing, jumping, barking, etc.

However, a dog's "prey" drive can also lead to "hunting", and this is where the behavior can become very serious. Some dogs will actually hunt down a person or animal with the intention of attacking in an aggressive manner. Certain breeds have a higher tendency to chase and kill prey (sporting, herding, hounds and terriers). However any breed, even mixed breeds, can have a strong prey drive.

When a dog is searching and stalking their prey, with the intention of chasing and killing their "prey", this is a very dangerous behavior. It is referred to as predatory aggression, and it is a natural reaction to movement. The scariest part of predatory aggression, is that there are very few warnings signs. The dog will sometimes run up to their victim, while other times the dog moves slowly, until it is close enough to attack. An attack can be nipping at the heels of person or other animal, or it can be a full on bite in an attempt to hang on and drag the person or animal to the ground. These types of attacks can lead to severe injuries or even death.

If your dog has shown strong predatory aggression, you should NEVER allow your dog to run loose off of your own property. This is not only for your and your dog's safety, but for the public's safety as well. If your dog is loose, and is caught chasing cars, bicyclists, or people, you can be charged with a violation of your local dog control ordinance. Additionally, if your dog attacks someone while it is loose, you could be facing a Dangerous Dog Complaint, in which you will have to appear at a hearing where your municipal justice will decide whether or not your dog is dangerous. If your dog is found to be dangerous, the judge will then issue court orders, which could include permanent confinement, or euthanasia.

The best way to avoid owning a dog with predatory aggression, is to properly socialize and train your dog. One great way is to enroll in a beginner's dog class with your dog, as this will help with both socialization with people and other dogs. Contact your local animal shelter to find out if there are dog training classes available in your area. A properly trained and socialized dog will be less likely to engage in aggressive behavior. Always walk your dog on a leash, as this is the best way to control your dog. If your dog runs off of your property on a regular basis, install a fence to contain your dog. If you can prevent your dog from getting loose, you will erase the chances of future problems from taking place.

- Lena Bombard

TLHS Manager/Dog Control Officer

9 Myths about Rabbits

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:12:00 -0400

9 Myths About Rabbits

In honor of Easter, we are hoping to offer up some useful information about rabbits. There are a lot of misconceptions about rabbits out there, and that is why a lot of rabbits end up in animal shelters. Here are some of the common myths that we have heard about rabbits.

Myth #1 : Rabbits are low maintenance pets.

The truth is that rabbits are anything but low maintenance, and that is why a lot of people turn them into animal shelters. When they realize they were not prepared for the care and cost of owning a pet rabbit, sometimes they think it is easier to just give them away. Rabbits require regular cage cleaning, fresh food/hay and water daily, including fresh veggies and fruits. There are also times when veterinary care may be required for health issues. You may not have to take your rabbit for a walk like a dog, but don't be fooled, they do require a lot of care.

Myth #2 : Rabbits only live a couple years at the most, so I won't have to commit a long time to caring for one.

The reality is that most well cared for indoor rabbits can live 7-10 years, and sometimes into their teens. That's the same life expectancy for many breeds of dogs. If you can't commit to caring for a rabbit for its entire life, then you probably shouldn't be adopting a rabbit.

Myth # 3 : Rabbits don't need veterinary care like dogs and cats.

They may not require annual vaccinations, but they should visit a vet at least once a year. Regular checkups with a vet is a good idea to help detect any problems or health issues early on before they become major. Rabbits can also be spayed or neutered, which will help to improve both behavior and health.

Myth #4 : Rabbits are happier outside in a hutch.

The truth is rabbits that are placed outdoors in a hutch are often forgotten and neglected once the novelty of having a rabbit has worn off. Outdoor rabbits end up living life in solitary confinement. They are also more prone to health issues due to extreme weather conditions, fleas/ticks, flies and mosquitoes. They are very sensitive to heat, and can suffer heat stroke easily in the summer months. Predatory animals can also attack their hutch. The stress alone from having their hutch attacked by a dog could be enough to kill a rabbit.

To make your rabbit happy and safe...keep them indoors.

Myth #5 : Rabbits are dirty and smelly.

Rabbits happen to be very clean animals, and they wash themselves regularly. They can be littertrained to cut down on the amount of mess you have to clean up. Regular cage cleaning will eliminate odor problems. Also, having your rabbit spayed or neutered will help your rabbit not want to soil in their cages as much.

Myth #6 : Rabbits love to be picked up and cuddled, and rarely scratch or bite.

Some rabbits tolerate being picked up and cuddled, but others that have been mishandled, or are adjusting to being handled, may react negatively to being picked up and carried around. Their reactions can include squirming, kicking or nipping. The best way to get a rabbit used to being handled, is to be gentle and patient. If you remain calm, so will the rabbit. You must be gentle and careful because rabbits have very fragile spines, and if they begin to kick and thrash too severely, they can injure themselves. It may take time to get a rabbit used to being held, but if you put in the effort, you will end up with a friendly bunny.

Myth #7 : Rabbits, especially Dwarf breeds, don't need much space.

Rabbits are usually pretty active, and they use their strong hind legs to run and jump around. They need regular exercise outside of their cage to be able to stretch their legs. A cage should give a rabbit enough room to hop at least twice, and a shelf provides an extra perch for jumping up onto. Dwarf rabbits are at times even more active than other breeds, and may require even more space to move about.

Myth # 8 : Rabbits can be left alone for days at a time.

This is not a good idea EVER. Rabbits need daily monitoring, because problems like not eating or drinking can lead to life threatening problems if left untreated. If you are going out of town, it is best to find someone to check in on your rabbit everyday to make sure nothing is wrong and to provide fresh food and water.

Myth #9: Rabbits only need rabbit pellet food and carrots.

One of the biggest mistakes new rabbit owners make is not providing their rabbit with a proper diet. Rabbits need to have grass hay provided every day. Hay aids rabbits with digestion and they love it. Pellet food should be used on a limited basis. Fresh veggies like romaine lettuce, broccoli, carrots, and fruits like apples (remove seeds), are great for rabbits. Apple branches are also a good chew treat for rabbits, and it also gives them something to chew on and keep their teeth from growing too quickly. Rabbits can be picky about what they like to eat, so you may need to try different foods to find what yours will like best.

For more information on rabbit care and behavior, check out the House Rabbit Society website.

To see what Rabbits we have available for adoption, click here

17 Poisonous Plants

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:59:00 -0400

The ASPCA has put together an informative video that discusses the 17 common plants that are poisonous to pets. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center had over 140,000 cases of pets being exposed to poisons in 2008.

If you believe your pet has ingested something poisonous, please contact your veterinarian immediately! You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

Follow this link to the video on poisonous plants:

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/17-common-poisonous-plants.html