Nobody likes to be forgotten, especially during the home buying process. Considering features in a home for an animal is parallel to considering features for children. It's important during the search process to be prepared in knowing what everyone in your family is going to need to feel comfortable after the big move; including your animals that you're bringing along with you.

Check Out The Neighborhood

Did you know ferrets are illegal in California and Hawaii? Yeah.

Without doing proper research before finding the home for you, you could end up in a situation choosing between your longtime friend and your new home. Each county can make up their own rules and regulations on the different kind of species they allow in their home. Even if the species is allowed, you should do further research in looking up their breed restrictions. 

Take a dog for example. A neighborhood you're looking at moving to could possibly not accept dogs over some certain sizes, heights or breeds. The most common breed restrictions in neighborhoods are:

• Pit Bull Terriers
• Staffordshire Terriers
• Rottweilers
• German Shepherds
• Presa Canarios
• Chow Chow
• Doberman Pinschers
• Akitas
• Wolf-hybrids
• Mastiffs
• Cane Corsos
• Great Danes
• Alaskan Malamutes
• Siberian Huskies

Home Features

During the home buying process, it's wise to think of everyone in the family so your furry friend doesn’t feels uncomfortable in your new home. Have a few qualities you know they need in a home.   Be sure to write it down.

Is there a back yard?

What type of grass is in the yard?

Is the yard fenced?

Is there a doggy door built in?

Is there carpet or wood floors?

Is there open layout for movement and play time?

Is there extra space for pet supplies?

If your pet is a senior, maybe consider a one story over a two story for better mobility.

Filtering out needs over wants during the home buying process is a must. You want to be sure you're getting the best out of your new home purchase.

Community Pet Services

Not only does the house need to be pet friendly, but the community should be too. Search around to find out where local dog parks are. Your furry friend would prefer to go on a 10-minute walk to the park every day than a 20-minute drive a few times a week, and you would too.

Things to looks out for with parks also is:

Do they have to be on a leash? 

Are certain parts of the park off limits?

Does the park provide stations for cleaning up after your dog?

Other amenities to look for are pet food stores, veterinary clinics, doggie day care centers, groomers and pet sitters. 

Being prepared during the home buying process is the number one way to get everything you need and most of what you want. To find out more on the home buying process, contact one of our specialists today!