How to Create a Pet Resume for Pet-Friendly Housing

When you're trying to find pet-friendly housing, you might be able to improve your chances by creating a pet resume. This particular document includes information related to your pet's habits, grooming, veterinary records and training. The purpose of a pet resume is to impress a prospective landlord with the pet's ability to remain docile, well-groomed and convenient for your living situation. In most cases, you'll want to include four distinct parts on your pet resume, all of which are described in detail below.

Description
The first section of your pet resume should be a detailed description of your pet. Obviously, the hunt for pet-friendly housing won't always be easy, but if you're able to describe your pet in a positive light, you might improve your chances. Include the breed of animal you own, a physical description and typical habits, such as chewing on bones or playing outdoors. If your animal is house trained, be sure to include that, as well as any extras, such as, "Never has an accident".

The description section of your pet resume is meant to give the prospective landlord an overall picture of your pet. Don't lie or stretch the truth, but do include anything that might be viewed favorably. If you're looking for pet-friendly housing in the way of an apartment, mention that your dog knows how to negotiate stairs or that your cat always uses her litter box. If you're trying to rent a house, mention that your dog can swim or enjoys a large backyard.

Health & Grooming
The second section of your pet resume should give information regarding your pet's health and grooming. The most important thing to mention here is vaccination records, which will be required for pet-friendly housing regardless of where you live. If necessary, you can staple a copy of your pet's vaccination records to the back of the resume. Also included here should be regular trips to the groomers', whether or not your animal has been fixed and the name of your veterinarian.

The important thing to remember with the health and grooming section of your pet resume is that you can't give too much information. If your pet has never had a problem with fleas, say so. If your dog has been debarked or if your cat has been declawed, include that information as well. You should also make sure to provide information about any disease or disorder that your pet might have, particularly if it is contagious.

Caregiver
The third section of your pet resume is about you -- the pet's caregiver. In order to find pet-friendly housing, you'll need to demonstrate that you are a responsible and caring pet owner. How long you've had the pet is a good way to start, as well as how often you take him or her to the vet. Make sure to mention that you are willing to pay a pet deposit for the privilege of keeping your pet on the premises

If you use a pet-sitter on a regular basis, be sure to include that information on your pet resume. Mention that you are an animal-lover who considers your pet to be a part of the family. If there is a reason why you require a pet companion -- such as for security reasons -- it can't hurt to mention that as well.

References
The final section of your pet resume is for references that will increase your chances of finding pet-friendly housing. For example, you might include a letter of reference from your veterinarian or pet-sitter. List the names and phone numbers of people who can vouch for your pet's behaviors, such as a previous landlord, and make sure to mention that you have additional references upon request.

A pet resume might seem a little overboard for some pet owners, but it will improve your chances of getting approved for pet-friendly housing. The more your prospective landlord knows about you and your met, the more comfortable he or she will be. Make sure you give your pet a good grooming before meeting the landlord and don't be afraid to answer questions about your pet's habits, behaviors or demeanor.