Five things to know before owning a pet

Bringing your fluffy friend home for the first time is an exciting moment in a person’s life. It’s important to make sure you comply with your apartment building rules to keep pets, otherwise you and “Fido” could find yourself in a lot of trouble.

1. Always check the building rules
The rules contain a lot of important information relating to you and your apartment, including details around keeping pets. It’s very important to read up on your by-laws to make sure your new fluffy house mate is allowed to move in.
Recommendation:
The building rules should be easily accessible online or through your committee.

2. If in doubt, ask a committee member
If there’s anything in the building rules that you’re confused about, don’t be afraid to approach a member of the committee for an explanation or a second opinion.
Recommendation:
Ask someone on the committee to clarify anything you find confusing. If this person doesn’t know the answer, ask your strata manager, as they will be up-to-date with the rules and regulations relevant to your building.

3. Pet selection
There’s a very big difference between a goldfish and a golden retriever. Some pets can be quite relaxed animals that don’t require much exercise, however other animals (like large dog breeds, for example) need daily exercise and a lot of room to move.
Recommendation:
Make sure you research the animal you’re looking to get to make sure they’re the right fit for your apartment and your lifestyle.

4. Safety & security
You may think your puppy is incredibly well behaved, but if he catches a whiff of your neighbour’s grocery shopping in the foyer, he might suddenly get distracted and run right over, knocking over who knows what.
Recommendation:
Ensure that your front door is always shut and keep your pet on a leash when taking it through common areas of the building.

5. Always clean up after your pet
No one likes picking up doggy droppings. However, if you decide to get a pet, this comes with the territory. If your puppy decides to do his business in a building’s common area, it’s your responsibility to pick it up and dispose of it.
Recommendation:
Whenever you take your pet for a walk, be sure to carry disposable bags with you, and potty train your pet as soon as possible to minimise mess inside your apartment.