Owning a pet is a fulfilling experience. Though pet ownership already comes with its fair share of challenges, living in a condo presents a few more to overcome. But simply being aware and considerate can help ensure a good experience for you, your pet, and the other condo owners.
If you’re a condo owner and you’re thinking about getting a pet, or if you already own one, there are aspects of pet ownership in a condo and some best practices that you should know:
Pet Etiquette
- Condo Rules
- Cleanliness
- Barking and Noise
- Personal Space
- Professional Training
Condo Rules
As with other aspects of condo ownership, following the rules and guidelines set out by condo ownership is key to a positive ownership experience. In addition to confirming that pet ownership is allowed, verify where your pet is permitted to frequent and relieve themselves and if there are any hourly restrictions to access common areas or any other limitations.
Cleanliness
This should go without saying but clean up after your pet. Always carry plastic or waste removal bags should your pet act off schedule. In addition, if it’s wet and muddy outside, wipe your pet’s paws before they return to common areas. This shows respect for your fellow condo owners and the maintenance staff.
Barking and Noise
If there is a nearby small park or space set up for the condo’s dog/pet residents, introduce your pet to the area. Is their temperament suitable for playing with other pets? Are there any noise rules for the space? If your pet creates too much noise or doesn’t get along with other furry residents, keep them on neighbourhood walks or other interactions. This reduces confrontations and stressful situations for pet owners and the pets themselves.
Additionally, run some tests when you leave your condo. Does your pet make noise while you’re away? Through no fault of their own, they may get stressed when their owner leaves for a certain period. It could be barking, excessive meowing, or chirping, but they all can be disruptive to your neighbours.
Also, be courteous and ask your neighbours if they hear anything while you’re away. This shows that you care about your pets and how their presence affects those nearby.
Personal Space
Everyone may not be enthusiastic about living with pets or interacting with them. Be communicative and advise if your pet is friendly or nervous around people they don’t know. If you have a support animal, let other owners know if they’re working and should not be addressed or pet.
Professional Training
If your pet struggles with condo living, consider hiring some professional help. This could be helping them with separation anxiety, interacting with condo owners, other furry residents, or bathroom challenges. Addressing these issues can improve life for everyone, furry or not.
Building relationships with other condo owners can go a long way toward a successful living experience. So, if your pet does something to inconvenience your neighbour, apologize and offer your understanding. Who knows, maybe you’ll get a new friend for you and your pet, or maybe even a pet sitter!
Are you ready to move to the next stage? Let’s chat. Send me an email (hillary@hillarylane.ca) or text/phone (416-882-4707).
Photo by Krista Mangulsone on Unsplash
