A Checklist for Rental Managers: How to Identify Responsible Pet Owners

The following is a list of questions to use when interviewing prospective residents with pets. These questions will assist you in getting to know a resident and his or her commitment to providing responsible pet care. We strongly suggest that you meet the pet, especially dogs; a well-groomed, well-behaved pet is one of the best signs of a responsible pet caregiver.

For All Pet Owners

• What types of pets do you have?
• How long have you had your pets?
• Do you have a letter of recommendation from your veterinarian stating that each pet is in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations?
• Do you have any written reference for your pets from your current landlord?
• Have there been any complaints about your pet at your current address? If so, have you paid your landlord for all the damage done?
• Does your pet have any medical or behavioral problems? If so, what treatment or training is he receiving?
• May I visit you and your pet after you move in to see how your pet is adjusting?
• Who will care for your pet when you are on vacation?

For Cat Owners

• Has your cat been spayed or neutered?
• Do you keep your cat indoors?
• Does your cat use the litter box that you provide?
• Does your cat wear a collar with visible identification?
• Is your cat registered with the local animal care and control authority (if required by local law)?

For Dog Owners

• Has your dog been spayed or neutered?
• Is your dog licensed and wearing a collar with visible identification?
• Is your dog housetrained?
• Do you keep your dog on a leash when you go for walks?
• How do you clean up your dog's waste when walking him?
• Have you and your dog completed a dog training class?
• How much time does your dog spend alone each day?
• How often do you treat your dog for fleas and ticks?
• Has your dog ever bitten anyone?

Adapted with permission from materials originally produced by the Hawaiian Humane Society.