I have a pet peeve of anyone changing definitions to try to make their point.  

Tell them it's mandatory.Make sure you are named as additional insured to protect your interests but also if they let the policy lapse you will get a little post card in the mail from Lexus Nexus or a similar company saying the policy is lapsed or canceled.For those that allow pets - have them get a renters policy that does not have a dog bite or dog breed exclusion.

During this same time period my wife and I both quit our jobs and started a dog-walking company.

I wont go into details about that place, but i wouldn't feel safe walking my dog there at all.

We were not there often due to travel and had no pets, apartment was returned in the same condition that we received itI am wondering if a normal wear and tear allowance calculation is something that actually exists and by law they need to provide the hourly rate breakdown and what was cleaned correct?

We found a family (2 parents and 2 teenage daughters) and no pets to rent our place starting October 1st.

The rent is $2345+$50 pet fee excluding utilities.

Prioritize cleanliness, appealing furniture and decor, being pet friendly, appealing to your market, professional photography, great customer service, and great reviews.

It would be like being trained by a neighbor on dog walking and them giving you a piece of paper calling you a certified dog walker. 

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.