Finding the right rental can take some work. When you’re bringing a pet along, there are a few more things to consider.
A listing described as “pet-friendly” doesn’t necessarily mean every pet will be accepted. Individual properties may have different policies regarding the type, number, size, or breed of animals allowed. There may also be additional deposits, monthly charges, screening requirements, or community rules to consider.
The best time to find out about these requirements is before you apply for a rental, not after you’ve already fallen in love with it.
If you’re searching for a pet-friendly apartment, townhome, or house in Missoula, here’s what to look for before submitting an application.
1. Confirm That the Property Actually Allows Pets
Start with the most important question: Are pets allowed?
Don’t assume a property accepts pets because you saw another resident walking a dog outside or noticed a cat sitting in someone’s window.
Pet policies can vary between properties — even when they’re managed by the same company.
When browsing available Missoula rentals, check the individual listing for information about pets. If the policy isn’t clear, ask before applying.
“Pet-Friendly” Doesn’t Always Mean Every Pet
A pet-friendly property may still have restrictions.
Depending on the rental, policies might limit:
- The number of pets
- Types of animals permitted
- Pet size or weight
- Certain dog breeds
- The age of a pet
- Other property-specific criteria
If you already have a pet, make sure your specific animal meets the property’s requirements before spending time or money on an application.
2. Ask How Many Pets Are Allowed
Have two cats? A dog and a cat? Planning to add another pet later?
Find out how many animals the property permits.
Some rentals may allow only one pet, while others may allow multiple animals. Never assume that approval for one pet automatically means a second pet is permitted.
If your household includes multiple animals, this is one of the first things to verify during your Missoula apartment search.
3. Understand the Pet Costs Before Applying
Your monthly rent isn’t necessarily the only cost associated with renting with a pet.
Depending on the property and applicable policies, you may encounter additional pet-related expenses.
These could include a pet deposit, additional monthly pet rent, or other permitted charges.
Before applying, ask exactly what pet-related costs apply to the rental you’re considering.
Include Pet Expenses in Your Rental Budget
An extra monthly charge might not seem significant when you’re looking at the advertised rent, but recurring expenses add up over the course of a lease.
When calculating how much you can afford to spend on rent, include all recurring housing expenses rather than looking at base rent alone.
That may include utilities, parking, internet, pet-related charges, and other applicable expenses.
Knowing the complete cost makes it much easier to compare different rental options accurately.
4. Review the Pet Screening Requirements
Some rental properties or property managers use a pet screening process as part of the application or move-in procedure.
You may be asked to provide information about your pet, such as its type, breed, age, weight, vaccination information, or other relevant details.
If pet screening is required, completing it promptly can help keep your application process moving.
Review the property’s rental application requirements before you begin so you’re prepared to provide the necessary information.
5. Be Accurate About Your Pet
When applying for a rental, provide complete and accurate information about the animals that will live with you.
Don’t try to hide a pet because you’re concerned it won’t meet the property’s requirements.
An unauthorized animal could violate your lease and create a much bigger problem after you’ve moved in.
If you’re unsure whether your pet qualifies, ask.
It’s much better to determine whether a property is a good fit before applying than to discover a problem later.
6. Consider the Property From Your Pet’s Perspective
Approval is only one part of finding the right rental.
A property can allow your pet and still not be the best place for you to live together.
When you tour an apartment or rental home, think about how the space will work for your animal.
If You Have a Dog
Consider:
- Where you’ll take your dog outside
- Access to grassy areas
- Nearby walking routes
- Stairs versus elevators
- Whether there’s a patio or yard
- How far you are from an exterior door
- The size and layout of the home
A fourth-floor apartment may be perfectly convenient for you but less appealing when you’re taking a dog outside several times a day.
If You Have a Cat
Think about:
- Window access
- Space for a litter box
- Safe places for food and water
- Room for scratching posts or cat furniture
- Whether screens and windows appear secure
- Places where your cat can retreat or relax
A little planning can make the rental much more comfortable for both you and your pet.
7. Look at the Surrounding Neighborhood
Don’t stop evaluating the property when you reach the front door.
The surrounding neighborhood can make a big difference when you have a pet, especially a dog.
Look for sidewalks, trails, parks, open areas, and other places where you’ll realistically walk your dog.
You may also want to consider proximity to your veterinarian, pet supply stores, groomers, boarding facilities, and other services you use regularly.
If you’re moving to Missoula with a pet, exploring the neighborhood before signing a lease can help you determine whether the location fits your routine.
8. Check the Community Amenities
If you’re considering an apartment community, look at amenities with your pet in mind.
Some communities may have dog parks or other pet-friendly features that can make daily life more convenient.
A community dog park, for example, can be particularly helpful when you don’t have a private yard.
When comparing pet-friendly apartment communities in Missoula, don’t just compare floor plans and rent. Think about which property will make everyday life with your pet easiest.
9. Ask About Outdoor and Shared-Space Rules
Pet-friendly apartment communities usually have rules designed to make shared spaces comfortable for everyone.
These may address where pets can be walked, leash requirements, waste cleanup, common areas, balconies, patios, or other community spaces.
Read the community policies for your rental and understand what’s expected before moving in.
Be a Considerate Pet Neighbor
Living in an apartment or other multifamily property means your pet has neighbors, too.
Clean up after your pet, use a leash where required, and be mindful of excessive barking or other behavior that could disturb nearby residents.
Responsible pet ownership makes shared communities better for residents with and without pets.
10. Think About the Flooring and Layout
Take another look at the interior of the rental with your pet in mind.
Flooring can be particularly important.
A dog that struggles on slippery floors may be more comfortable with area rugs. Carpet may require more cleaning if your pet sheds heavily. A large dog may need more open floor space than a small cat.
Also consider where you’ll put:
- Pet beds
- Food and water bowls
- Crates
- Litter boxes
- Toys
- Scratching posts
- Pet supplies
These aren’t necessarily reasons to reject a property, but thinking about them during your apartment tour can help you choose a home that works well after you move in.
11. Understand Your Responsibility for Pet-Related Damage
Even the best-behaved pet can occasionally cause damage.
Scratched doors, damaged blinds, stained carpet, chewed trim, or damage to landscaping are examples of issues that can occur.
Review your lease carefully so you understand your responsibilities.
Taking steps to prevent damage can also help. Provide appropriate scratching surfaces for cats, keep dogs exercised, protect vulnerable areas when appropriate, and address accidents quickly.
When you move in, follow the property’s move-in inspection process and document the condition of the rental as instructed.
12. Know the Difference Between Pets and Assistance Animals
Pets and assistance animals aren’t necessarily treated the same way under housing rules.
Assistance animals may be subject to different requirements than household pets, and housing providers must comply with applicable fair housing laws.
If you’re requesting a reasonable accommodation related to an assistance animal, follow the property’s established reasonable accommodation process rather than assuming the standard pet policy applies.
Property managers may request information or documentation when legally permitted, so it’s best to begin the appropriate process early.
Questions to Ask Before Applying for a Pet-Friendly Rental
If you’re searching for a home with a pet, a few questions can help you quickly determine whether a property belongs on your shortlist.
Consider asking:
- Does this specific property allow pets?
- How many pets are permitted?
- Are there size, breed, or other restrictions?
- What pet-related deposits or monthly charges apply?
- Is pet screening required?
- Are there pet-friendly amenities?
- What are the rules for shared outdoor spaces?
- Are there designated areas for dogs?
- What information about my pet is required with my application?
- Are there any additional community-specific pet policies?
Getting answers upfront can save you from applying for a property that isn’t a good fit.
Make a Pet Rental Profile Before You Start Searching
If you know you’ll be applying for a pet-friendly rental, it can help to organize your pet’s information ahead of time.
Depending on the property’s requirements, you may want to have basic information available about your pet, such as its age, breed or type, approximate weight, and vaccination records.
If additional documentation or screening is requested, you’ll be better prepared to complete it promptly.
The same approach can help with the rest of your rental application. Gathering your identification, income documentation, rental history, and other required information before you start applying can make the process easier.
Finding a Pet-Friendly Rental in Missoula
Finding a rental with a pet may narrow your options, but it doesn’t mean you have to settle for a home that doesn’t work for you.
Start by confirming the property’s pet policy. Then look at the complete picture: cost, location, layout, outdoor space, amenities, neighborhood, and community rules.
The goal is to find a home where both you and your pet can be comfortable.
Missoula Property Management manages apartments, townhomes, and rental homes throughout the Missoula area, including properties that may offer pet-friendly options.
Browse our available Missoula rentals and review the individual property listing for current pet policies, pricing, availability, and application information.