Most Watertown renters know how much of a responsibility it entails to keep a pet in a rental house. Not only do you have to ensure that your pet is safe and healthy, but you also have to take steps to protect your rental home from any kind of damage your pet may cause. Pet damage is one of the ways a renter can lose their security deposit. Even if your landlord lets you keep a pet, they would still want you to return their property in good condition when you move out. You will have to minimize your pet damage if you want to ensure that you get your security deposit back as you live with your pet. We have listed down some tips to keep your beloved animal from causing damages to your rental home.
Keep Claws Busy
Scratching is a natural habit for cats and some other household pets. But to protect your rental house, it’s important to keep scratching behaviors away from the floors and walls. Cats love scratching pads and posts. Give yours one! An inexpensive one works as well as a fancy one in preventing them from scratching on other surfaces. Although cats are drawn to scratching pads or posts, you can reinforce their use by using pheromone sprays and wipes.
Keep Boredom at Bay
Boredom is one of the most common reasons a dog will bite or chew on walls, doors, and other household surfaces. Give your dog more playtime and exercise if you see him chewing on everything. Regular exercise is a great way for dogs to expend their extra energy and reduce the amount of chewing he does. Mental stimulation is equally important. If you have an exceptionally smart dog, teaching him some tricks will keep him occupied.
Proper Potty Training
Housebreak your dog if you want to keep your rental home from damage. Dog and cat urine are very destructive and can really damage walls, floors, and a lot more! If possible, allow your dog to have access to your yard during the day. For cats, provide them with litter boxes, and keep the litter clean every day. If you find any other spots and accidents in the house, that may be a signal for you to bring your pet to a veterinarian for a check-up. There are some conditions that cause a pet to lose control of their bodily functions, and many of these can be remedied with appropriate treatment. Always have a good enzymatic cleaner on hand to clean up any potty mess in the house. This cleaner eliminates odors and discourages your pet from using the area again when he feels the need to go.
Manage Anxiety
A lot of pets feel severe anxiety when they are left alone at home. Dogs may become agitated and may bark, jump, or chew on blinds, doors, and even carpet. If you will be leaving your pet home alone for hours every day, make sure you work with him to reduce or eliminate such behaviors. Create a routine in order to manage separation anxiety. Each time you leave, go through the same motions in the same order. Do not make a big deal out of either leaving or coming back. Give your dog affection only when he calms down and you will notice that the intensity of his excitement will reduce every time he greets you at the door.
These strategies will help you give your pet a happy, healthy life as well as prevent damage to your rental house to make sure you get your full security deposit back.
Are you in the market for a pet-friendly rental house? Check out the listings that Real Property Management Commonwealth has to offer today!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
