woman being kissed by dog and cat on a sofa

Hot Topics

Pets in rental properties

Many thousands of dogs and cats are killed each year because of a lack of pet-friendly accommodation - the single most important factor leading to relinquishment in Australia. Despite most evidence suggesting that pets do not cause significant cost to landlords, barriers put in place by property owners, body corporates and real estate agencies routinely result in thousands of animals being put down.

Approximately 33% of people in Australia rely on rental accommodation, but only about 10% of advertised rentals allow pets. A ‘Pets Are Welcome policy inclusive of cats and dogs of all breeds and size would save tens of thousands of lives every year, by preventing surrenders and opening up new opportunities for adoptable animals.

Impact of pets on wellbeing

As well as directly contributing to the deaths of thousands of healthy, adoptable dogs and cats in shelters and pounds each year, policies that force renters to choose between a beloved pet and having a home have a devastating effect on people’s physical health and emotional wellbeing. In some cases, they result in human homelessness. People on a low income with few options may choose to live on the street or in their car, rather than surrender their companion animal.

What APWF is doing

The Australian Pet Welfare Foundation’s (APWF) priorities are to support research to determine the economic and social benefits for landlords in Australia of a ‘Pets are Welcome’ policy, to lobby for legislative change, and to connect directly with real-estate agents and property managers to change attitudes.

We also provide pet-owners with the tools and information they need to know their rights regarding pets in rental accommodation, and the most effective actions they can take to secure and maintain a home.