"Moving" and "landlord doesn't allow..." are among the top reasons millions of pets are relinquished to shelters each year. If you are looking for a new place to live, and giving up your pet is not an option, here are a few tips that will help you in your search. Start looking early: Since many housing communities have strict rules against pets, particularly dogs, you will have limited choices. You should start looking at least several weeks before your present lease ends. If you are planning on buying a co-op or condominium, expect your search to take about five months. Be flexible: Particularly if a landlord is making an exception in allowing your pet, be willing to make a few concessions. For example, allergies of other tenants may be a concern, so consider offering to use a different stairwell or elevator when with your pet. Often a "no pets" policy results from poor experiences with former tenants who may have had disruptive pets or left behind damaged property. If you are willing to leave a larger security deposit, some landlords might be more willing to bend the rules for you. Some pets allowed: Some communities have policies that are less strict than others, such as ones that will allow small dogs, or animals that are kept indoors only. Even if you have a large dog, don't give up yet. If you can convince the landlord that you are committed to being a responsible pet owner and help relieve her worries, she may make an exception. Of course, you should also know when to recognize when your efforts may be futile -- such as in the case of larger housing communities that need to consider having to bend the rules for all their tenants. Prove that you are responsible: Yes, of course you are a responsible pet parent, that's why you're reading this. But now you need to let your potential landlord know that: Get a letter from your veterinarian, stating that your pet is up to date on vaccinations and that you have provided appropriate medical care for your pet, including neutering. Obtain a reference from your present landlord or management agency, verifying that you are a responsible caretaker of your animals. If your dog has been through obedience training or is enrolled in a class, get written proof of that as well. Show off your pet: Although you shouldn't bring your dog or cat along with you, bring a photograph. Show your potential landlord that you take good care of your pet and are just as concerned about cleanliness as she is. Bring up that fact that your pet is house- or litter box trained and that you use flea and tick products. Offer to bring your dog to meet her, so that she can see for herself that your pet is not aggressive. Keep your pet under control: If your cat is an indoor-only cat or your small mammals are mostly confined, be sure to mention that. Also let your potential landlord know that your dog will be on a leash whenever you are outside your apartment. Get permission in writing: An oral okay just isn't enough. Get explicit permission that covers your particular type of pet as part of your lease or purchase agreement. That will help avoid any potential problems that may arise, especially if your landlord or management company changes.

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