Apartment living with pets requires attention, diligence

A couple of years ago, the American Pet Products Association noted that pet ownership in the United States had reached an all-time high, with 82.5 million households owning at least one pet. Not all of those households are in single-family homes with a backyard. Increasingly, apartment residents are pet owners, too. Here are some things to keep in mind about pets in an apartment.

Communicate with the manager. There are usually additional deposits and fees associated with pet ownership in an apartment. Pretending you don’t have a pet when you do won’t last long, and can get you evicted. Getting a fake “service animal” certificate off the internet is dishonest, and is unfair to the owner, to your neighbors who are following the rules and to people who are truly in need of a service animal.

Breeds matter with dogs. Just because a dog is small doesn’t mean it is a good fit for apartment living. Jack Russell terriers, for example, tend to have tremendous energy and need more space to run and play than some larger, calmer dogs. Some breeds suffer from separation anxiety, and may disturb your neighbors while you’re away. Make sure you choose a breed that’s suited to apartment living.

Dogs need exercise. Most dogs need exercise at least twice a day — morning and night.

Dogs like routine. Walking and feeding your dog at around the same time each day makes for a happier dog and fewer accidents.

Clean up. Always pick up after your pet. Many communities provide special bins to do so.

Vet care. Keeping your pet current on vaccinations, flea treatments and parasite preventatives is always important, but it’s especially important when living in an apartment in proximity to other people and other pets. Have your dog or cat spayed or neutered, and make sure their shots are up to date.

Be considerate. A dog that barks constantly is a problem in any setting, but especially in an apartment where the only thing between you and your neighbors is a sheetrock wall. Never leave your dog on a balcony or patio unattended, especially on hot days. They might bark more and will overheat. Consult with your vet about behavioral training if your dog is an excessive barker.

For questions regarding issues related to apartment living, contact the Houston Apartment Association at 713-595-0300.