Newly aquired Duplex with renters

[Mike Putnam]

I recently bought a duplex at an auction with existing tenants. 

First Issue

One of the tenants has a pitbull for a pet. This is the first time I have encountered this problem.  My Insurance will not insure the property knowing that a pitbull is being kept there.  I can get insurance elsewhere, but it is more expensive, and they exclude the dog from coverage.  I haven't talked with the tenant yet.  I was looking for some advice first.

Second Issue

The Former owners allowed the tenants to not pay rent for the month of November, instead of paying the deposits to them, or me.  Maybe this will be an issue, maybe not.  Any advice on how to approach the tenants on this issue?

We have not closed on this deal yet.  It could very well be Jan Before this happens.