According to statistics, 68% of households in the U.S. have pets. But unknown to many new homeowners is that there can be pet restrictions in the community they live in. You may now own the home and property you live in, but there are certain restrictions you need to know if you are a homeowners association member. This is true for those who live in rowhouses, condominiums, townhouses, or even those who live in planned development of houses.
It may seem unethical to restrict homeowners to get their own pets. Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) have the right to do so, but this is not absolute. This is since service animals are allowed to stay. Some HOA require homeowners to have proper documentation to show that proves their pet is indeed a support animal.
It is crucial that you keep an eye out on such rules before choosing your home. For HOA members, the following are a few must-knows worth knowing so you can stay on the good side of your organization.
Most HOAs have basic pet rules
HOAs that allow homeowners to have pets have certain rules and restrictions to follow. This is to ensure the safety and integrity of the community as well as to limit possible pet damages. For one, all pets need to be registered and documented. Most homeowners association limits the number of animals one can keep as pets in their homes. Your HOA may even have pet breed and weight requirements since the larger your dog is, the bigger the potential mess and threat they may pose.
As a pet owner, you have the right to bring your pet with you to run errands. You can bring your dog with you out to shop for groceries, grab a few Shimano spinning reels for your next fishing trip with friends, or even take your pooch out at the dog park. However, they expect you to ensure your dog stays on a leash when out in the neighborhood and for you to pick up after your dog’s waste. Pets are also not allowed to be left wandering around the neighborhood without their owners. This is for the safety of your neighbors.
It is important to check what other pet restrictions are implemented. This is since some HOAs require dogs in public to be tethered, neutered or spayed. To maintain peace in the neighborhood, it is your job as the pet owner to take remedial actions to your pet’s negative behaviors.
Common pet owner problems
One minute your dog is a gentle pup and the next minute they can be loud, aggressive, or destructive. Such behaviors can be an issue especially if your neighbors get involved. To avoid hassles, it is a must that you try to resolve the problem the soonest time possible. You can start by figuring out what causes your pet’s behavior issues. Taking necessary remedial actions and preventive measures to aviod such behaviors in the future.
HOAs allowing pets in the community expects responsible pet ownership. This involves knowing all the pet restrictions and abiding with all the pet rules. If you have a pet dog or are open to adopting one in the future, then take into consideration if your community has HOA pet restrictions or not.
