Lets4Pets is high on the agenda here at Homes4Harrogate. Alongside our chosen charity Cat’s Protection, we’re on a mission to increase the number of landlords who allow pets in their rental properties.
In this blog, we take a look at the shortage of rental options for pet owners, and why the work of Cat’s Protection is so important.
Finding a landlord who is willing to accept a pet is like finding a needle in the proverbial haystack. As a letting agent, Homes4Harrogate is more than familiar with this problem. The number of tenants on the hunt for somewhere to rent with their pets in tow is huge, but their options are few. In our view, that needs to change.
We have previously spoken about the reasons a landlord may have for not wanting pets in their property. But there are also fairly compelling reasons why there’s really no cause for concern. The most persuasive one being the pool of money-earning, rent-paying tenants out there, who are being completely overlooked for no discernible reason other than the minor risk of a chewed skirting board.
Lets4Pets – How can we make a change?
Because Homes4Harrogate works with both landlords and tenants, we understand both points of view. We empathise with the fact that a landlord is worried about damage being caused to an expensive investment. We also understand the frustration of a pet-owning tenant who’s unable to find a rental when they know that their pet is not a risk to people or property.
The first thing we have to do is educate everybody about the very real benefits of owning a pet. When it comes to mental health, owning a pet is the furry, more effective equivalent of prozac. They give unconditional love and support, meaning that pet-owners tend to be calmer and happier in their day to day lives. Pet-ownership is beneficial when it comes to tackling loneliness (the plague of modern society) and helping children learn and develop. Pets also increase the fitness of their owners and enhance their social lives.
On the whole, allowing a pet in their property is something we believe landlords should embrace rather than avoid.
Lets4Pets – who are Cat’s protection and why are we supporting them?
Harrogate and District Cat’s Protection is an organisation dedicated to the rescue, care and rehabilitation of abandoned and stray cats. It’s run entirely by volunteers, meaning that every single penny raised goes towards the animals they care for.
On average, it costs Cat’s Protection £150 per cat to cover things like microchips and vaccinations. On top of this, there’s the cost of food and general accommodation. That’s why continued donations are vital to the organisation and the cats they care for.
Lets4Pets – how are we supporting Cat’s Protection?
Combining our passion for property and our love for animals, Homes4Harrogate will donate £5 to Harrogate and District Cat’s Protection for every let with a pet. We’ve set up links on our website which allow you to ‘donate now’ and we would welcome any contributions from visitors to our site. Where a let for a pet happens, Cat’s Protection will provide additional items for the move-in boxes we provide to our tenants on moving day.
If you’re a tenant looking for a pet-friendly rental, or a landlord looking for advice and reassurance, Homes4Harrogate is here to help. You can also contact Cat’s Protection, who have lots of handy tips and guides for letting your property to tenants with pets.
Let’s work together for landlords, tenants and animals. Get on board and support Lets4Pets.
