Tips for Keeping a Pet at Your Apartment

Pets are great, but they can require a lot of attention and responsibility. The Block Townhomes is a student apartment community in Starkville, MS that is proud to welcomes pets! Review our pet policy on our website and continue reading our post for some tips and suggestions for keeping a pet in your apartment.

Know your pet.

Our community permits cats and dogs, but we do have breed restrictions. Read our pet policy for more details. After you’ve found out your pet is permitted, you should still consider whether you think your furry friend will actually be happy in your apartment. Consider how much exercise they habitually need, how much time you need to devote to taking care of specific needs, and whether or not they’ll feel cooped up in an apartment. Be prepared to make accommodations!

Make accommodations.

Pets can completely change your life, but you don’t have to be overwhelmed. Plan for any changes to your schedule and your home you might need for a seamless transition. For example, organize your furniture so your pet can easily roam about your apartment. Keep feeding stations in plain sight but out of the way. Plan for how you can fit things like potty breaks, exercise, and playtime into both of your schedules.

Address problems.

House training is possible, even if it seems difficult. Address the “why” of each problem that arises and give your pet healthy alternatives to behaviors that you don’t want in your apartment, like spraying or scratching, barking, or leaving messes inside. Be persistent and know that even if the whole process of keeping a pet is exhausting, the companionship is worth it.

Give them space.

Some animals don’t mind smaller spaces, but others (even if their breed isn’t on our list of restricted breeds) might need more space to roam. Take note of how your pet navigates your home and move furniture so the layout can flow naturally for both of you. Move valuables into cupboards, closets, or other enclosed areas your pet won’t have access to if you’re worried about accidents.

Stay on top of your pet’s health.

Your pet’s health is important for their well-being and the safety of you and everyone else in the community. Make caring for their health a priority in your life. Bathe your pet, brush their teeth regularly, exercise them, and check up on current or past illnesses to prevent problems. Visit a veterinarian for regular checkups, and don’t be afraid to ask them for help on any behavioral issues you may be encountering.

What other tips do you have to share with others in our apartment community? Share them with us in the comments. Thanks for taking the time to read our post!