How to Find Rabbit-friendly Housing
By: Cait Reizman and Matt Cummins
Finding rental homes and apartments that allow bunnies can be tricky, but here are some pointers to get you started.
1. Try using websites that allow you to filter your search for “pet-friendly” or, even better “allows cats.” Since rabbits and cats have a similar lifestyle and care routine, your best bet will be to find a place that’s advertised as cat-friendly. Here are some examples of sites you can try:
b. Craigslist
c. HotPads
d. Padmapper
e. Trulia
f. Zillow
2. As you see places you like, jot down key information in Excel or a Google Sheet. If your bunny is a digger or has imperfect litter box habits, remember to take note of which places have carpeting versus hard flooring.
3. Write a polite message that you can copy and paste to email to every contact in your list. Express how interested you are in their unit and ask if they would allow your rabbit(s). Provide any details that would help your case, like if your rabbit is litter-box trained or lives in a pen.
4. When you get “yes” replies to your emails, make sure to note in your sheet if there are any conditions or fees like an additional pet deposit.
5. Before you sign, ask to see a copy of the rental agreement, and make sure the damage policy is agreeable to you.
6. Immediately after move-in, take thorough notes and photos of the condition of the place and send it to your landlord, so they don’t hold you and your rabbit accountable for pre-existing damages at move-out.
7. Make sure to bunnyproof! Blocking off electrical cords and lining your baseboards with packing tape are great places to start.
Remember that adopting a rabbit is a commitment to treating it as a member of the family. Finding a place where they’re welcome may take longer, but it’s worth it to be able to keep your family together.
Good luck in your search!
