Tenant Brought in Dog After We Clearly Said "No"

[Lindsey Kramer]

So our new tenants moved in a week ago. Within 12 hours they broke a window. Life happens and we are actually replacing all the windows. What I didn't like is that she said she has no idea what happened. Hhmm, I have never had a window spontaneously break from behind a screen on the inside of a house, but I am moving on.

Three days later she informs me they are getting a puppy and that she would like to pay the pet deposit and the monthly fee. I immediately got her on the phone and explained our pet policy, which includes no puppies under two years old. She said ok and that she didn't really want the dog anyway.  That night I sent a follow-up email clearly outlining our whole pet policy, just for both her records and mine. She emailed me back and said "Ok, thanks!". Then a few hours later she emails me and says that the dog is at their house, but her sister is coming to take it to the adoption place today."  Hhhmmm. 

My question is how would you deal with this situation?

[Linda S.]

Hi @Lindsey Kramer,

I don't know about this one, because they seem like they could be shady tenants.    We allow pets, and without a doubt-- if someone doesn't have a pet, and you allow them.. they will get a pet, normally within a week or so..  pets also make a house a home, and they are more likely to stay there long term...

If they are good tenant,  and you want to keep them-- how about doubling or tripling pet rent until the dog hits the 2 year mark?  The dog is there, it's not going anywhere.     I'd also double the nonrefundable pet deposit.   Just an idea if they seem like great tenants.   The biggest thing with animals is to require spayed and neutered, because that's when they get aggressive with marking, during the season. 

If you just want them out and have a bad feeling, technically this is a violation and be firm with the lease.    Just my 2 cents!