How to Ask Your Landlord for Pet Approval
Asking your landlord for pet approval can feel like a job interview for your cat. A good request shows you are a responsible pet owner, addresses their likely concerns upfront, and makes it easy for them to say yes. These emails do exactly that.
A note on this topic: This message is general guidance for everyday communication. For situations involving legal rights, medical decisions, workplace disputes, or financial obligations, consider consulting a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
Pet Approval Request
RecommendedDear [Landlord Name], I hope this finds you well. I am writing to request permission to have a pet in my unit at [address]. The pet is a [type, breed, size - e.g., small dog, a 15-pound Cavalier King Charles Spaniel] that is [age] years old, [house-trained / litter-trained], and [well-behaved / up to date on vaccinations]. I understand the importance of maintaining the property and am happy to: - Pay an additional pet deposit - Provide veterinary records and references - Sign a pet addendum with agreed-upon terms - Be fully responsible for any pet-related damage I have been a responsible tenant for [time period] and want to continue that track record. Would you be open to discussing this? I am happy to meet in person or provide any additional information. Thank you, [Your Name]
Subject Line
Pet Approval Request - [Your Unit/Address]
Alternative Versions
More Direct Version
directDear [Landlord], I am requesting pet approval for a [type/breed/size]. I am willing to pay a pet deposit and sign a pet addendum. The animal is trained and vaccinated. Please advise. [Your Name]
Warmer Version
warmDear [Landlord], I hope you are well! I have a bit of a request that I hope you will consider. I would love to bring a [type] into my home. [He/She] is [age], incredibly well-behaved, and I am happy to provide references from previous landlords. I am absolutely willing to put down extra deposit and take full responsibility. I would really appreciate the chance to discuss it! Warmly, [Your Name]
Thorough and Professional
professionalSubject: Pet Approval Request — Unit [Number] Dear [Landlord Name], I am writing to formally request permission to have a pet in my unit. Here are the details: - Pet type: [Dog/Cat/Other] - Breed: [Breed] - Weight: [Weight] - Age: [Age] - Temperament: [e.g., well-trained, quiet, housebroken] I am happy to provide veterinary records, proof of vaccinations, and references from previous landlords. I am also willing to pay an additional pet deposit or monthly pet fee as outlined in the lease. Thank you for considering my request. [Your Name]
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When to Use This
Use this when: - Your lease does not explicitly ban pets - You are a tenant in good standing - You are willing to put down a pet deposit - You have a well-behaved, manageable pet
What Not to Say
Avoid: - Getting the pet first and asking later - Hiding the pet and hoping they do not notice - Being vague about the animal's size or breed - Claiming it is a service animal when it is not - Taking it personally if they say no
Follow-Up Message
If You Need to Follow Up
Subject: Following Up — Pet Approval Request Hi [Landlord Name], I am following up on my pet approval request from [date]. I wanted to see if you had a chance to review it. I am happy to provide any additional information or references, or to discuss a pet deposit if that would help. Thank you for considering it. [Your Name]