Hope for relaxed pet tenancy laws
WHEN Mika Dargie had to move house, she knew she couldn’t leave her pets behind – even if that meant living in her car.
But such drastic options to save pets from being given up could soon be a thing of the past after a State Government-led review.
Tenants with the Rental Tenancy Authority in Queensland will receive an email today asking for their opinion on how renting could be improved.
Ms Dargie of Upper Coomera, who now runs rescue group Kitt Kat Care, said that at one point she was forced to live for four days in her car with her pet dogs while she waited for a petfriendly place to come up.
Ms Dargie said she had now bought a property, but is still dealing with the problem with those who need her rescue group.
“The number one reason we get is ‘we’re moving and we can’t take our animal’. If that wasn’t a problem, 40 to 50 per cent would keep their animals. Euthanasia rates would go down,” she said.
Animal Welfare League of Queensland strategic officer Joy Verrinder said making it easier to rent with pets could reduce the shelter’s waiting list for surrenders.
“It would make a big difference. I think it’s 22 to 30 per cent of our animal surrenders are due to not finding pet-friendly accommodation,” she said.
“We understand that landlords want to protect their properties, but it’s important not to discriminate and give owners a chance to prove themselves. That can be done through pet referrals, referrals from vets, neighbours and other landlords.”
Administrator for Facebook page Strata Owners Speaking Out Julie-Anne James said there was already a precedent set for body corporates that they could not refuse tenants with pets.
REIQ Gold Coast zone chairman Andrew Henderson said there would need to be a balance.
“If it just goes in the tenant’s favour and owners stop buying, then owner-occupiers dominate the market. We just wouldn’t want to see investors drop out,” he said.
To have your say, visit the Open Doors to Renting Reform website at yoursayhpw.engagementhq.com/rentinginqld