If you’re a pet owner in New Hampshire, you already know the struggle: finding a rental that welcomes your furry family members can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. As a REALTOR® and pet lover myself, I’ve seen the stress, heartbreak, and frustration pet owners face in today’s rental market—and it's time we talk about it.

When "No Pets Allowed" Becomes a Wall Between People and Home

Pets aren’t just pets. They’re family. They’re comfort after a hard day, a reason to get outside, and often a lifeline for people facing loneliness, anxiety, or trauma. But despite over 66% of U.S. households owning a pet, rental housing hasn’t kept up.

Here in New Hampshire, the lack of pet-friendly rentals is especially tough. Low inventory, rising rents, and competitive demand mean landlords often have their pick of tenants—and more often than not, they choose someone without pets.

The Real Cost of "No Pets" Policies

I’ve worked with clients who’ve had to choose between keeping their dog and having a roof over their heads. I’ve seen responsible pet owners—people with great references, steady income, and loving animals—turned away over and over again.

Some landlords fear damage. Others worry about noise or liability. And while those concerns are understandable, they’re not the full story. Responsible pet owners are often some of the most stable, long-term tenants out there. But blanket no-pet policies cut them out entirely.

The Emotional Toll on Families

I've had calls from people in tears. Parents who don’t know how to explain to their kids why their beloved dog can’t come with them. Seniors with emotional support animals facing eviction. Shelters seeing surrenders—not because people don’t want their pets, but because they simply have nowhere to go with them.

This isn’t just a housing issue. It’s a compassion issue.

So What Can Pet Owners Do?

If you’re searching for a pet-friendly rental in NH, here are some tips that may help:

? Create a pet resume – Include your pet’s age, breed, vaccination records, behavior training, and references from previous landlords or pet sitters.

? Offer a pet deposit or pet rent – It shows you're willing to take responsibility and ease a landlord’s concerns.

? Be honest and proactive – Don’t try to hide your pet. Be upfront and respectful in your communication.

? Work with a REALTOR® who understands pet needs – (Like me!) I know how to navigate these conversations with landlords and look for properties that are more likely to say "yes" to you and your pets.

A Call to Landlords: There’s a Better Way

To the landlords and property managers reading this: there’s a massive market of responsible, reliable renters being shut out. Consider case-by-case policies instead of blanket bans. Require pet insurance or deposits. Ask for references. But don’t write off great tenants just because they come with a leash or litter box.

You might be surprised at how grateful and loyal a pet parent tenant can be.

Moving Forward, Together

Finding a place to live shouldn't mean giving up a member of your family. As someone who works in both real estate and the pet care community, I’m passionate about helping people and pets stay together—because home should be where everyone is welcome.

If you or someone you know is struggling to find a pet-friendly rental in New Hampshire, reach out. I’d love to help however I can.

Because pets are family. And everyone deserves a place to call home.

Written by:
Nataya Sylvestre, REALTOR®
Keeler Family Realtors
?? Cell: 603-410-7025
?? Office: 603-225-3353 x303
?? Serving all of New Hampshire