There are several options for pet owners that are facing foreclosure or economic hardships and must separate from their pets. The first thing to remember is not to leave your pet behind.  Abandoning your pet is against the Orange County Code, and can lead to neglect or cruelty situations. Pets are often left alone in apartments or homes, and are not found until they are on the brink of starvation. Not to mention the undue stress placed on the animal.  There is no need to be hasty.  Remember, you have options:   

• Find Pet Friendly Housing:  There are plenty of rental properties that allow pets.  You must begin searching early.  Increase the chances of a landlord accepting your pet by having current vaccinations, arrange for the landlord to meet your pet, prepare a pet resume, bring letters of reference, and offer to sign a pet agreement and pay for a pet deposit.
• Re-Homing your Pet: Check with friends, family and neighbors for a chance to permanently relocate your pet.  This could also serve as a temporary option until you get back on your feet.  Be sure to agree on a specific time when you will reunite with your pet, and discuss who will pay for the pet's expenses so that everyone understands the expectations.
• Contact your Shelter: This option is the most difficult.  But remember that you are giving your pet a better life.  Contact your local shelter or rescue group to make arrangements ahead of time.  Provide as much information as you can to the shelter workers so that they have a better chance of finding a new home for your pet. 

Designer sweaters, gourmet treats and spa trips- you may love them, but does your pet really need them?  Starting a "pet budget" is a good way to cut unnecessary spending. 

Start with the basics; good veterinarian care and quality food. 

Experts say that stopping wellness pet visits can lead to escalating health issues.  Cutting out preventative medication such as heartworm and flea treatments can lead to bigger and more costly problems.  Here are some tips on cutting costs:

• Examine your pet weekly home check-ups by checking the skin, ears, and mouth will alert you to any issues
• Spay or neuter your pet, it is a good way to prevent ovarian cancer in females and testicular cancer in males
• Brush your pet's teeth to prevent tooth decay and costly dental cleaning bills
• Shop around for the best vet rates
• Talk to your vet about a vaccination plan that is specific to the needs of your pet
• If you live in Orange County, take advantage of the free rabies vaccination program called Pet Amnesty Day
• Consider pet insurance so that you are not faced with a huge bill in the event your pet becomes ill or is involved in an accident. 
• Give your pet quality dog food.  Be careful not to overfeed, as this can lead to obesity problems for your pet

Other cost cutting tips include:

• Groom pets at home
• Bake your pet's treats instead of buying them
• Buy less expensive toys, or make your own (an old sock and tennis ball work great!)
• Search for free pet friendly events, you can both exercise while getting some entertainment

It is not easy to find pet friendly housing.  When looking for a place to rent that accepts pets, remember the following:

• Be prepared to spend a lot of time and energy looking for a place
• Find out what makes a landlord say yes to pets
• Show that you are a responsible pet owner by following the Orange County Code pertaining to animals
• Prepare a Pet Portfolio that includes a pet resume, letters of reference (former landlords, pet sitter, groomer), list a history of training/obedience, and copies of vaccination records
• Offer to sign a pet agreement
• Offer to pay an additional pet deposit
• Encourage the property owner to meet your pet (make sure he is groomed and on best behavior)

Landlords are encouraged to interview prospective tenants.  Ask them to bring their pet to the interview.  A well-groomed, well-behaved pet is a good sign that the owner is responsible.  Here are some questions you should ask:

1. What type of pet(s) do you have?
2. How long have you had them?
3. Ask for copies of current vaccination records
4. Is your pet spayed or neutered?
5. Have there been any complaints about your pet at your current address? (If the property is in Orange County, call us to verify)
6. Did your pet cause any property damage at your current address?  If so, how did you pay your landlord for the damage done?
7. Contact the current landlord
8. Would you object to my checking in on the pet after you move in?
9. Who will care for your pet when you are on vacation or away on business?
   

Pet deposits for rental properties are typically charged in addition to a security deposit.  Information about security deposits can be found in s. 83.43 and s. 83.49, Florida Statutes.  Be sure to become familiar with the laws governing your rights as a tenant and landlord.

Please note that service animals are not considered pets, therefore deposits or surcharges on an individual with a disability cannot be imposed as a precondition to allowing a service animal.  Please see s. 413.08 in the Florida Statute for more information.