By Judy Bellack, Industry Principal, The Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative
As pets increasingly become integral members of households, the demand for pet-inclusive housing has never been greater. The Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative (PIHI), spearheaded by the Michelson Found Animals Foundation, is at the forefront of reshaping rental housing to meet this demand. Their latest report, the Pets in Rental Housing 2025 Outlook, provides a compelling vision for the future of pet-inclusive living while outlining the challenges and opportunities ahead.
A Vision for Pet-Inclusive Housing
PIHI champions the idea that rental housing should accommodate pets as part of the family unit, regardless of breed, size, or other restrictive factors. The 2025 Outlook emphasizes the importance of community partnerships, data-driven strategies, and less restrictive policies to foster a thriving coexistence between pets and their owners in rental properties. This vision aligns with a growing societal recognition of pets as more than companions—they are cherished members of the family.
The Gaps in Current Housing Policies
While many properties market themselves as “pet-friendly,” the reality often falls short. The report highlights that only a small fraction of rental properties—less than 8% in major U.S. cities—truly embrace pet-inclusive policies. These restrictions disproportionately affect renters with large dogs, multiple pets, or breeds commonly excluded due to outdated perceptions of risk and damage. According to PIHI’s findings, 72% of pet owners report difficulty finding suitable housing, leading to tough decisions such as rehoming pets, hiding them from landlords, or incurring significant additional costs.
The Benefits of Inclusive Policies
Adopting pet-inclusive policies is not just a win for renters; it’s also a strategic advantage for housing providers. PIHI’s data reveals that pet owners stay in their homes up to 21% longer than non-pet owners, reducing turnover and vacancy losses. Inclusive policies attract a broader pool of prospective tenants, boost resident satisfaction, and foster stronger community bonds. Moreover, easing pet restrictions can alleviate pressures on animal shelters by reducing pet relinquishment and euthanasia rates.
Actionable Insights for Housing Providers
The 2025 Outlook offers a roadmap for housing providers to make meaningful changes. Small adjustments, such as easing breed and weight restrictions or reducing pet-related fees, can have a profound impact. To assist in this transition, PIHI provides tools like the Pet-Inclusive Scorecard, which helps properties evaluate and improve their policies. Additionally, the report encourages participation in initiatives like the Pet-Inclusive Housing Awards, which recognize industry leaders championing inclusive practices.
A Call to Action
As the rental housing industry moves into 2025, the stakes for embracing pet-inclusive policies have never been higher. The report underscores that pet-friendly is no longer enough; housing providers must evolve to meet the expectations of today’s renters. By adopting inclusive practices, the industry can not only meet market demands but also drive positive social and economic outcomes.
Conclusion
The Pets in Rental Housing 2025 Outlook is both a challenge and an opportunity. It calls on housing providers to rethink traditional policies and embrace a more inclusive approach that benefits pets, their owners, and the broader community. With PIHI’s leadership and resources, 2025 has the potential to be a transformative year in rental housing—one where pets are truly welcome as part of the family.