Moving Abroad with Pets? Tips to Find Your Ideal Rental Now 2025

REAL ESTATE2 months ago

Moving to a new country is an exciting experience. You get to explore a new culture, meet different people, and build a fresh life. But if you have pets, finding a place to live becomes a bit more complicated. Many expats struggle to find pet-friendly rentals when moving abroad.

Whether you are bringing a dog, cat, or another furry friend, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to make your search for a pet-friendly home easier.

Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Are Hard to Find

One of the first surprises for many expats is how hard it can be to find a landlord who accepts pets. Landlords may worry about:

Property damage (scratched floors, chewed furniture)
Noise complaints (especially with barking dogs)
Allergies (for future tenants)

In some countries, rental laws may allow landlords to refuse pets without needing to give a reason. This can make the process stressful and time-consuming.

Do Your Homework Before You Move

The best way to avoid problems is to plan ahead. Before you move, ask yourself these questions:

Does the country I’m moving to allow pets in rentals?
Are there areas or neighborhoods known to be more pet-friendly?
What are the local laws and regulations around pets in apartments or houses?

Some cities, like Berlin or Toronto, are known for being pet-friendly. Others, like Dubai or Hong Kong, may have stricter rules and fewer options.

Use online expat forums, Facebook groups, and local real estate websites to gather information early.

Work with a Local Real Estate Agent

Hiring a real estate agent who knows the local market can save you a lot of time. Make sure they:

Speak your language or can communicate clearly
Understand your needs as a pet owner
Have experience helping expats

Let your agent know up front that having your pet with you is non-negotiable. This way, they won’t waste your time with listings that won’t work for your family.

Keywords to Look for in Listings

When browsing online listings, use keywords like:

“Pet-friendly”
“Pets allowed”
“Dog/cat accepted”
“Pet policy”

Some landlords may not include this information in the ad. Don’t be afraid to message them directly and ask, even if it’s not listed. In some cases, landlords may make an exception if you have a small or well-behaved pet.

Prepare a “Pet Resume”

Yes, this is a real thing—and it works. A pet resume is a short document that includes:

A photo of your pet
Breed, age, and weight
Vaccination and medical history
Training or certifications (like obedience classes)
A short letter explaining why your pet is well-behaved
References from previous landlords, if available

This small step shows you’re a responsible pet owner. It can help win the trust of landlords who may be unsure.

Understand Local Laws and Lease Terms

Each country has different rules when it comes to renting with pets. Make sure you:

Read the lease carefully. Does it mention pets? Are there extra fees?
Check for pet deposits or monthly pet rent.
Learn about building or condo rules, especially in apartments.

In some places, you may be asked to pay a higher deposit or sign a separate pet agreement. Make sure everything is written down clearly to avoid problems later.

Ask About Pet-Friendly Amenities

A pet-friendly rental is not just about allowing animals. It should also be a good place for them to live. Look for features like:

Nearby parks or walking trails
Pet-friendly cafes or shops
A balcony, garden, or backyard
Easy access to a vet clinic

These features can make life easier for you and more enjoyable for your pet.

Consider Temporary Housing First

If you can’t find a long-term rental right away, consider temporary housing such as:

Pet-friendly hotels
Airbnb or vacation rentals that allow pets
Short-term serviced apartments

This gives you time to explore the area, understand the market, and find the right long-term home without rushing.

Talk to Other Expats with Pets

Nothing beats real-world advice. Join expat communities online or in your new city. You can learn:

Which neighborhoods are best for pets
Which landlords are flexible
What to avoid during your search

Platforms like Facebook, Reddit, or InterNations often have groups focused on expat life in specific cities. You can even find pet-sitting or walking networks to make your pet’s transition smoother.

Be Honest and Transparent

Never try to hide your pet or sneak them in without permission. If you’re caught, it can lead to eviction, fines, or legal trouble. It’s better to be honest and wait a little longer to find the right place than to deal with major problems later.

Final Thoughts

Finding a pet-friendly rental as an expat may take extra time, but it’s possible with good planning and a positive attitude. Be patient, stay organized, and use every tool available—from pet resumes to expat groups.

Your furry friend is part of your family, and with a little effort, you’ll both be able to enjoy your new home abroad.