The advantage I instantly see is fewer dog owners will want to rent that space;) Even though I am a dog lover I hate pets in my units.

I also do not charge a pet deposit or pet rent because I believe our animals are family.

You can also have a rule that says you do not rent to people with pets or that you do not rent to lawyers.Be consistent with the rules.

They did have a dog that he mentioned yesterday because the kids wanted a dog (violation of original contract, didn't pay pet fee).  

They include leases, pet addendums, check in/out forms, etc.

Pets, too many occupants, not enough income, bad credit, picky criteria, too many things, etc. all come into play. 

House is in Florida.The 4 person applicant also has pets.

Maybe allow small dogs with pet deposits.

Think of 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.

Maybe people want years for the kids or pets, maybe they want their own laundry or garage, Or maybe SFR is just harder to compare.