Allow current tenant to buy a dog - lease agreement prohibits

[Account Closed]

I have a SFR in Austin, TX leased to a woman who is 60 years old and disabled. Her father is financially responsible for the lease. He called yesterday, mentioned 2 break-ins on the same street and said both houses had alarm systems. My SFR has an alarm system, but not activated. Given the break-ins, he requested a dog for his daughter, but our current lease prohibits pets. That was my preference to protect the SFR.

Would like your thoughts on how to approach this... More context, current agreement is 24 months and we are 8 months in. No issues with current tenant.

Thanks. 

[Max T.]

If you don't want pets, suggest they sign up for a home security system.

If you are ok with pets then put it in writing, but charge more rent for it.

-require vet records

-require spay/neuter

-restrict breed and size if you so desire

I would also worry about the ability for the tenant to care for the dog. Dogs that make good security/protection dogs require a lot of exercise and care. You did mention this woman was disabled. When these dogs don't get the required exercise they expend their extra energy elsewhere (carpets, doors, floors, baseboards, landscaping...)

Oh yeah and if you have any sort of grass or landscaping just be prepared for it to look a lot different after a year or so, maybe less.