A study of a wide selection of UK adults, who have ever rented and owned a pet at the same time, found 10 per cent are living with a furry friend despite it being banned as part of their rental agreement. A further 25 per cent have done so in the past, resulting in tenants feeling anxious (52 per cent), worried (45 per cent) and guilty (28 per cent).
But one in 10 have been caught out by a landlord, due to a surprise visit (48 per cent), seeing them when they were out, such as on a dog walk (21 per cent) and even anonymous tip-offs (20 per cent). And, sadly, for 22 per cent of those, this led to them being evicted.
But 53 per cent admitted they were – and are – prepared for any potential consequences if they were found out. The top animals people have secretly owned included dogs (59 per cent), cats (56 per cent) and rabbits (eight per cent).
The research was commissioned by Mars Petcare, to mark the launch of ‘The Petiquette Guide to Rentals and Pet Ownership’ – a digital guide published in partnership with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, to help tenants and landlords navigate pet tenancy.
Paolo Rigamonti, general manager of Mars Petcare UK:
“Responsible pet owners shouldn’t be denied the right to experience the joy and benefits of pet ownership just because they rent, but the current legislation and lack of clarity unfairly impacts renters. We also know just how severe the stress of living with uncertainty is for pet-owning tenants and – with tenancy restrictions directly contributing to pet abandonment – it’s clear change needs to happen.”
The study of 1000 people also found 37 per cent haven’t asked their landlord if they can have a pet, due to being worried they’ll say no (24 per cent) and being afraid of getting evicted (14 per cent). And 24 per cent refuse to ask because they’ll keep their pet regardless.
The lengths tenants have gone to in order to keep their animals hidden included having someone on emergency standby to pet-sit (45 per cent) and using room spray to conceal giveaway smells (37 per cent). Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) have lied to their landlord and said the animal isn’t theirs, but a friend’s, while 19 per cent have covered their pet’s cage or bed with a sheet.
Broadcaster, cat owner and landlord Zara McDermott:
“As a cat parent to Cedric and Albus, I know first-hand just how much joy pets can bring to life every day. The thought of loving pet owners having to choose between remaining in their home and keeping their pet is just awful, which is why I’m so pleased to be working with Mars Petcare and Battersea – helping pet owners get clued up with the Petiquette Guide to Rentals and Pet Ownership.”
It also emerged more than a third (34 per cent) understand why property owners don’t allow pets in their rented properties but they’re not in agreement with it. While 69 per cent of those surveyed via OnePoll support the proposed Renters’ Reform Bill which will make it easier for tenants to find a home. Almost nine in 10 (87 per cent) agreed there are benefits to living with a pet, including combating loneliness (84 per cent), reducing stress (75 per cent) and encouraging exercise (63 per cent).
But for 34 per cent, having an animal has caused problem for them when trying to find somewhere to live.
