first year tenant asking about pets

[Luke H.]

Hello everyone, hope all is well.

A tenant hasn't completed their first year, has paid on time each month, and kept the house in good order.  Tenant is asking if they sign another year lease if there is an option of having a small dog.  It was a strict no pet policy to start with (tired of flea infestations, and fighting pet smells/stains).

I am considering allowing a very small dog, requiring all dog paper work (immunizations /city registration) charging $75.00 more a month in rent, and doing monthly inspections. 

Anyways, I wanted to get feed back from everyone else on this.

[Derrick E.]

I allow responsible pet owners in my properties. Even advertise it. If a crappy tenant wants to get a pet they will just get one without asking. Anyone who goes through it the right way has a better chance of being a responsible pet owner.

Set a weight limit and charge a pet fee (not deposit.)