PET bonds and proof of puppy training are among suggestions by a Wodonga company to help landlords allow animals in their rental properties.
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Mars Petcare made a submission to the Victorian review of the Residential Tenancies Act, saying a few simple changes to the existing laws could support owners and tenants.
Mars Petcare research and development director Tim McCallum said finding pet-friendly housing was one of the biggest barriers pet owners in Australia faced.
“The current act doesn’t allow landlords to distinguish responsible pet owners from irresponsible pet owners, which means they often resort to a blanket ban on pets,” he said.
“But the research shows that pet owners actually make great tenants, who take longer leases and are willing to pay more for a pet-friendly property.
“Too many pet owners have been forced to give up their pets because of the lack of pet-friendly housing.”
Mars Petcare argued a payment in addition to the usual bond, disclosure if a tenant had not received a pet bond back in previous housing and evidence a dog had passed training could lessen landlords’ concerns.
In addition, owners should be unable to refuse or evict tenants for having a pet unless they could prove the animal was causing a nuisance, damaging the property or endangering neighbours’ safety.
Mr McCallum said changing the act could increase the appeal of pet owners as tenants.
“There is decades of research that show how pets help with improving our physical and mental health, as well as playing a part in building local communities and friendships,” he said.
“With more and more Australians living in rental properties, there’s a real risk that people could lose out on experiencing the benefits pets bring to our lives.”
In total 476 individuals and groups responded to the review’s issues paper on the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants.
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