For many pet owners in Ireland, finding a rental property that allows dogs or cats is a major challenge. With the country’s high rental demand, many landlords opt for strict no-pet policies, making it difficult for pet owners to secure housing.

But is it impossible to find pet-friendly rentals in Ireland? Not quite—if you know where to look and how to improve your chances, you can find a home that welcomes both you and your furry friend.

The Reality of Pet-Friendly Rentals in Ireland

• Limited Availability: The rental market is already competitive, and many landlords prefer tenants without pets to avoid potential damages or complaints.
• High Demand: With housing shortages and rising rents, landlords can be selective, meaning pet owners often struggle more than other renters.
• Some Pet Owners Forced to Rehome Their Pets: Due to housing restrictions, some renters have sadly had to give up their pets just to secure accommodation.

“I searched for months, and every place I called said no pets. It was heartbreaking. Landlords won’t even consider you if you have a dog.” – Dublin renter

Online discussions highlight how difficult the search can be.

How to Find Pet-Friendly Rentals in Ireland

While difficult, finding a rental that allows pets is possible if you follow these strategies:

Search Pet-Friendly Rental Platforms

Some property websites allow you to filter listings that accept pets:

• LongTermLettings.com – Features a section specifically for pet-friendly rentals in Ireland.
• Airbnb – While mostly short-term, some Airbnb hosts accept pets for long-term stays.
• Facebook Groups – Join rental groups where landlords post pet-friendly homes.

Be Proactive & Negotiate with Landlords

Many landlords automatically reject pets, but you can change their mind with the right approach:

• Introduce Your Pet – Send a message explaining your pet’s breed, behavior, and training. Some landlords might reconsider.
• Provide Pet References – Ask your previous landlord or veterinarian to write a letter confirming your pet is well-behaved.
• Offer a Higher Deposit – Proposing a slightly higher security deposit can reassure landlords.
• Suggest a Trial Period – Offer a three-month trial agreement where the landlord can see if your pet causes any issues.

If the listing doesn’t mention pets, always ask anyway. Some landlords might allow pets on a case-by-case basis.

Expand Your Search Beyond Dublin

Pet-friendly rentals are harder to find in cities but easier in smaller towns and rural areas.

Best Cities for Pet-Friendly Rentals in Ireland:

• Galway – More open spaces and flexible landlords.
• Limerick – Growing rental options, lower competition.
• Cork – More suburban options available.

Avoid overly competitive areas like Dublin, where landlords have no shortage of tenants without pets.

Look for Pet-Friendly Housing Schemes

Some landlords specifically rent to pet owners. While rare, these do exist:

• Housing Associations & Co-Living Spaces – Some allow pets with restrictions.
• Pet-Friendly Developments – Newer apartment complexes may have pet-friendly policies if you ask.
• Privately Owned Houses – Individual landlords are more flexible than corporate property managers.

What Needs to Change?

With thousands of pet owners struggling to find housing, many believe Irish rental laws should be updated to protect pet owners.

The UK updated rental laws in 2021 to encourage landlords to accept pets. Could Ireland follow suit?

Proposed Solutions for Ireland:

• Legislation to Allow Pets in Rentals (with conditions).
• Incentives for Pet-Friendly Landlords (e.g., tax breaks for allowing pets).
• Pet Deposit Schemes to cover damages and give landlords peace of mind.

Can You Find a Rental as a Pet Owner in Ireland?

Yes, but it takes extra effort. Pet owners need to search harder, negotiate more, and be flexible to find housing.

Best Ways to Secure a Rental with Pets:

• Search Pet-Friendly Listings – Use LongTermLettings, Airbnb, and Facebook Groups.
• Be Proactive – Offer references, higher deposits, and trial agreements.
• Expand Your Search – Look outside Dublin and city centres.
• Support Change – Advocate for better rental policies for pet owners.

Are you a pet owner struggling to find housing in Ireland? Share your story in the comments.

Know someone looking for a pet-friendly rental? Share this article with them.

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