Why renting doesn’t always mean losing your pet

Finding a rental property that allows pets can feel like searching for a unicorn, magical if it happens, but mostly impossible. For me, that impossibility meant handing my Yorkshire Terrier, Dino, over to the RSPCA after seven years together.

Writing this blog is my way of sharing what happened, and to highlight a huge change that could help others avoid the same heartbreak.

When life changed

After my husband became ill and unable to work, we realised we would have to move out of our home and into rented property.

We searched for a property where the landlord would allow pets but were unsuccessful and had to accept that we had no other choice but to give our two yorkies Alfie and Dino up.  Alfie went to a relative so we knew we would still be able to see him, but unfortunately, we were unable to find a home for Dino and the day came when I had to hand him over to the RSPCA for rehoming. We had had him for 7 years and I was heartbroken.

Tenants right to request a pet

In a landmark move for renters in England, the Renters’ Rights Bill 2025 has introduced significant reforms, including enhanced rights for renters to keep pets in rented properties so hopefully what happened to me will be a thing of the past.

Reasonable grounds for refusal

Landlords can no longer impose blanket restrictions on pets and can only refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet if they have a valid reason including property damage or the suitability of the pet for the property. The tenant would have to deliver a written notice advising that they wished to keep a pet, and failure of the landlord to respond within 28 days may be deemed as an unreasonable refusal, amounting to consent, allowing tenants to keep their pet.

Balancing interests

This change is centered around the challenges faced by pet owners to find a rental home. By allowing tenants to keep pets, the law is finally recognising the benefit of pet ownership, including companionship and care of mental health.  The landlord also has a right to ask the tenant to purchase pet insurance in the event of damage caused by the pet. By providing clear guidelines and avenues for dispute resolution, the legislation seeks to promote harmonious living arrangements and responsible pet ownership.

By granting tenants the right to keep pets, the legislation promotes a more inclusive and accommodating rental market. As the bill continues to be implemented, it will be essential for both tenants and landlords to understand their rights and obligations.