In today’s rental market, having a pet can feel like a disadvantage. But it doesn’t have to be.
A Pet CV is one of the simplest and most effective ways to turn a “maybe” into a “yes.” I know, I have done it for clients may times. It’s about how you position your pets
What Is a Pet CV? Click here to create your own Pet CV
Think about it; you’re talking to estate agent and landlords about your pets. You love them, they are a big part of the family. You know they are well behaved and cute.
However, the Pet CV turns into more into a reality for agents and landlords. A way to visualise your pets. A few images of them sleeping, looking up innocently at the camera, can win over many people. Even the most hardened landlords!
So, A Pet CV helps a landlord understand that you are a responsible pet owner. Which in turn, shows you will most likely look after the property and be responsible paying the rent. That is really what landlords care about.
So what points should I put in a Pet CV?
– Who they are and sweet pictures
– Training Qualifications and vaccinations
– How they behave
– Why they’re not a risk
– Say if you work from home and are with them
– Say previous landlord or vet or dog walker reference available
Because from a landlord’s point of view, the unknown is the problem. A Pet CV removes that uncertainty and that is why is really helps.
Most tenants just mention their pet and agents or landlords saying no without truly understanding.
The Pet CV turns the ‘no’ (which will still happen after the Renters Rights Act) to oh, a cute dog or sweet cat, ‘I’m sure that will be fine, let me talk to the landlord’.
A Pet CV also shows:
– You’re organised
– You’re responsible
– You’ve thought about the landlord’s concerns
That instantly puts you ahead of the competition.
We’ve had landlords accept offers purely because of how well a pet was presented.
This was from an estate agent. The Pet CV did the trick!
“As discussed, congratulations on this offer being accepted. There were 3 other good offers on the table but the dog CV sold it to them- I quote ‘the cutest thing that they have seen.”
It’s not just about the Pet. It’s about giving the landlord confidence in you as a tenant.
Because if you’ve taken the time to present your pet properly, chances are you’ll look after the property properly too.
Just to re-cap what should it include? Keep it simple:
– Photo
– Age and breed
– Temperament
– Routine (walks, alone time, etc.)
– Training or behaviour
– References (if available)
Nothing over the top — just clear and reassuring.
Final Thought
In a competitive market, small details make a big difference. A Pet CV won’t guarantee success. But it can be the reason a landlord choos
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If you’re unsure how to structure a pet clause or want to make sure your tenancy properly protects you Pets Lets (add link) can guide you through it before you sign.
The Rent Ready ( With Pets) service helps you approach agents the right way, structure your application properly, and uncover opportunities others miss.
About the Author – Russell Hunt
Pets Lets Expert Insight
This article was written by Russell Hunt, co-founder of Pets Lets, a specialist service helping tenants secure pet-friendly property to rent in London and across the UK.
With more than 30 years of experience in the London property market, Russell works with tenants, landlords and estate agents to make renting with pets possible in practice, not just in theory. His work focuses on helping pet owners present strong applications, prepare properly for competitive markets, and navigate landlord concerns around pets.
Through Pets Lets, Russell supports UK tenants with pets as well as educates landlords with UK properties on the benefits of dog friendly rentals and cat friendly rentals in London and across the UK.
Russell also runs the community “Relocating to the UK with Pets”, helping thousands of members understand the realities of travelling to the UK with pets.
Learn more about pet-friendly renting advice and services at Pets Lets
For further guidance on renting with pets, visit Dogs Trust’s Lets with Pets
