Preparing a Pet Resume for a Landlord

Angela Colley reports:

"Pet resumes might be the next big trend in renting. And even if a potential landlord doesn’t ask for a CV for your canine, you might want to have one ready...Not all landlords are asking for pet resumes, but more renters are getting them. Cathy Klein, a professional designer who creates professional pet resumes through the aptly named PetResumes.net, has received requests from all over the country, particularly in California, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. And they aren't just for large dogs...Even if the landlord doesn't request it, being prepped could set you apart from the pack. 'If an applicant provided me with this information without being prompted, it would speed up the screening process and make me feel more comfortable with the applicant—thereby increasing their chances of getting accepted,' said Lucas Hall, chief community manager at Cozy.co and an experienced landlord himself. To start your pet's resume, get the basics in order. Hall recommends all resumes start with this information:

• Pet’s name
• Age
• Breed
• Weight
• Proof of vaccinations
• Disclosure of any incidents
• Current photo

References are also important, but asking for reference letters may be a waste of time. 'Generally speaking, the new landlord will want to verify the information for themselves,' Hall said. Instead, add your vet's contact information and any former landlords who can verify what an awesome pet you have...Many landlords are skittish when it comes to large dogs or breeds deemed aggressive. Adding a bit of your pet’s unique flair to the resume can help your potential landlord get past those breed or size concerns...Note your pet’s funniest quirk or a funny anecdote from the dog park. Whatever you decide to include, 'you want your potential landlord to smile when he looks at the resume,' Klein said...While we don't think your landlord and your pup need to FaceTime each other (although that would be cool), a short video can add a fun touch. And you don’t have to go over the top...If you aren’t blessed with a gift for the written word or you want a resume that really pops, it's time to bring in the pros. Unlike human resumes, pet resumes are fairly inexpensive...If you want to use a pro, ask for samples of their work so you have an idea of what he or she can do. Whichever way you decide to go, make sure your potential landlord gets Fido's resume at the right time. 'Generally speaking, a renter should try to get the pet's info in the landlord's hands when they are starting the evaluation process,' Hall said. Ideally, you should bring a copy of the resume with you while you view apartments. If you find a great spot, you'll be ready to get a leg up on the competition."