More than 70% of apartment renters own pets, survey finds

More than 70% of apartment renters reported owning pets, with cats and dogs as the most popular types, according to a survey released Tuesday.

Despite the high pet ownership numbers, the survey by Apartments.com found that it may still be hard for renters to find a pet-friendly apartment.

Nearly two-thirds of pet-owners in 2014 reported having some difficulty finding an apartment that allows pets, but the rental listing website said that may be changing.

We see the rental industry moving toward accommodating the needs of this important and growing segment of renters, Tammy Kotula, spokesperson for Apartments.com, said in a statement.

The survey found that apartment building's pet policies played a major role in the decision about where to rent for nearly nine out of 10 pet owners.

Seventy percent of pet owners said their choice of where to rent was influenced by nearby pet amenities, such as parks, veterinary facilities and pet stores.

We believe these trends may increase demand for new apartment construction that includes innovative pet-friendly spaces, amenities and policies, said Brad Long, president of Apartments.com.

In downtown Los Angeles, the newly opened Avant South Park Apartments is hoping to appeal to dog owners with amenities such as a bark park and a dog grooming station. It also has a dog walker and groomer on site.

Its not like a make-or-break deal, said Adam Schaller, a leasing agent at the building, which held its grand opening at the end of June. Its just an extra perk.

Schaller said a little under half of the apartments had been leased so far and around 35% are occupied. He estimated that about one-quarter of the residents own pets.

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More than 70% of apartment renters own pets, survey finds