When to make repairs?

[Melissa Rudolph]

Recently went in a rental property to replace air filters and discovered the tenants pets had damaged an approx 1' x 3' section of carpet. When should this be repaired? Repair now and have the tenants pay for it now? Or repair upon move out and deduct from security deposit? My concern is if damage continues to happen I'm not sure if the security deposit will cover all the damages and am unsure how successful I would be in obtaining any additional money from the tenants to cover damages in excess of the security deposit. But it also doesn't really seem worth it to repair now if damages are likely to continuing occuring, as it was clear upon entering, the tenants are not taking care of the property very well. Any words of wisdom would be appreciated! :)