Renting With Pets: How to Write a Pet CV for Landlords
Many landlords say no to pets by default. A clear, honest pet CV with references and records can change that. Here is what to include and how to present your pet as a low-risk tenant.
In short
Many landlords say no to pets by default. A clear, honest pet CV with references and records can change that. Here is what to include and how to present your pet as a low-risk tenant.
Finding a rental that accepts pets can be one of the hardest parts of moving. Many landlords say no by default because they are worried about damage, noise and complaints — not because they have met your pet. A pet CV, also called a pet resume, answers those worries before they are asked, and gives a landlord or letting agent a reason to say yes.
What to Include
1. The Basics
- A clear, friendly photo
- Name, species, breed, age, size and whether neutered
- How long you have had your pet
2. Health and Care
- Vaccinations up to date, with the last date
- Regular flea and worm prevention
- Microchip number and registration
- Your vet's name and contact details
Flea prevention matters to landlords — an infestation in carpets is one of their biggest fears.
3. Behaviour and Training
- House trained
- How your pet behaves when left alone and for how long
- Any training classes or certificates
- Good with neighbours, children and other animals
- For cats: litter trained, uses scratching posts
4. Care Arrangements
- Your working pattern and how your pet is cared for during the day — dog walker, daycare, working from home
- Who looks after your pet when you are away
5. References
- A previous landlord who can confirm no damage or complaints
- Your vet
- A dog walker, trainer or pet sitter
6. Insurance and Responsibility
- Pet insurance, including third-party liability cover if you have it
- A statement that you will repair or pay for any pet damage and arrange professional cleaning when you leave, if required by your agreement
Pet Health Record Binder
Landlords and letting agents often ask for proof of vaccinations and parasite prevention. The Pet Health Record Binder keeps every date and vet visit in one printable place, ready to attach to your pet CV.
Get the Pet Health Record Binder →Presentation
Keep it to one or two pages. Use a clear layout with headings, one good photo and short bullet points. Be honest — if your dog barks when the doorbell rings, say what you are doing about it. Honesty builds trust far better than a perfect-sounding profile that later turns out not to be true.
Offer a Meeting
Invite the landlord or agent to meet your pet. A calm dog who sits politely, or a relaxed cat, is often more persuasive than any document.
Know the Rules
Rules about pets in rented homes, deposits and pet fees vary between countries, states and regions, and they change. Check the current rules where you live and read your tenancy agreement carefully.
Once You Move In
Keep the trust you earned: keep up parasite prevention, deal with any damage quickly, and keep your records up to date for your next move. Our guide on moving house with pets covers the move itself.
Two ways to keep records ready
For dogs, the Complete Dog Owner Binder covers health, training and routine. For cats, the Complete Cat Owner Binder covers health, feeding and litter — everything a pet CV draws on.
Get the Complete Dog Owner Binder →Frequently Asked Questions
Do landlords actually read pet CVs?
Many do, especially smaller landlords. It shows you are a responsible owner and answers their concerns in advance.
What if my dog has a behaviour issue?
Be honest and explain what you are doing about it — training, a behaviourist, management at home.
Should I include a reference from my vet?
Yes, if possible. A vet reference confirming regular care carries weight.
Printable and fillable PDF templates for pet owners — feeding schedules, health records, training trackers and more.