Most Smithfield renters know that when you keep a pet in a rental house, you take on a major responsibility. Not only do you have to ensure that your pet is safe and healthy, but you also have to take steps to protect your rental home from any kind of damage your pet may cause. One fast way that a renter can lose his security deposit is through pet damage. Even if your landlord lets you keep a pet, they would still want you to return their property in good condition when you move out. To ensure that you will be getting your security deposit back when you own a pet, you have to minimize pet damage. Here are some ideas so you can keep your beloved animal from causing lasting damage to your rental home.
Keep Claws Busy
Scratching is a natural habit for cats and some other household pets. To protect your rental house, you will need to keep scratching behaviors away from the floors and walls. One way is to provide scratching pads and posts for cats. It does not have to be fancy, even an inexpensive one will do to keep your cat from scratching on other surfaces. Reinforce your cat’s use of the scratching pad or post with pheromone sprays or wipes.
Keep Boredom at Bay
Boredom is one of the most common reasons a dog will bite or chew on walls, doors, and other household surfaces. Give your dog more playtime and exercise if you see him chewing on everything. Dogs expend their pent up energy when they have regular exercise. This will help reduce the amount of chewing he does. Mental stimulation is also as important. A smart dog will appreciate it when you teach him tricks to keep him occupied.
Proper Potty Training
Another way to protect your rental home from damage is by housebreaking your dog. Dog and cat urine are very destructive and can damage walls & floors greatly. It would help if your dog is allowed access to a yard during the day. For cats, provide them with litter boxes, and keep the litter clean every day. Bring your pet to the veterinarian if you still notice spots and accidents in the house. Some pets may have physical conditions that make them lose control of their bodily functions, many of which can be corrected with appropriate treatment. Always have a good enzymatic cleaner on hand to clean up any potty mess in the house. This type of cleaner not only eliminates odors, it also discourages your pet from using the area again in the future.
Manage Anxiety
There are some pets that tend to feel anxious whenever they are left home alone. Dogs may become agitated and may bark, jump, or chew on blinds, doors, and even carpet. If you know there will be times you will have to leave your pet home alone for hours every day, you must work with him to reduce or eliminate these behaviors. Create a routine in order to manage separation anxiety. This means going through the same motions in the same order when you leave. Do not make a big deal out of either leaving or coming back. Make sure your dog has calmed down before giving him affection. Soon you will note a reduction in the intensity of his excitement when he greets you at the door.
With these strategies, you can prevent damage to your rental house and get your full security deposit back. At the same time, you will also have a happy and healthy pet.
Are you in the market for a pet-friendly rental house? Check out the listings that Real Property Management Dominion has to offer today!
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