This exciting pilot, which has been made possible thanks to funds raised by players of People’s Postcode Lottery, is designed to improve the experience of anyone accessing housing with a pet, or those wishing to add a pet to their family home. It is hoped it will positively impact all tenants, not just those who share their homes with a pet.

Over the next few months, Dogs Trust will be working with Manor Estates, reviewing its existing policies and procedures, and implementing changes to make these more pet inclusive. Through the partnership, a Pet Friendly Housing Toolkit will be developed, providing a set of guidelines that other social landlords can adopt to welcome and support pet owners within their homes.

This pilot project comes at a time when Dogs Trust is receiving a record number of enquiries from people being forced to rehome their dogs. In July, 15% of people contacting Dogs Trust cited issues with housing as the reason for needing to rehome their dog. This includes people being forced to move or downsize as rental prices increase, but are unable to find suitable, affordable pet-friendly properties.

Further to this, research conducted by Dogs Trust and Cats Protection, revealed that only 46% of private landlords allowed pets. Just 30% of tenants said their private landlord would allow a dog.

Through this partnership with Manor Estates, Dogs Trust aims to address and remove barriers preventing tenants from having pets and demonstrate to other landlords that pet friendly policies are beneficial to all.

Jennifer Leonard from Dogs Trust’s Pet-Friendly Housing Team, said: “Over the last few years, we have seen an increase in the number of owners contacting us to relinquish their dog. Sadly, one of the most common reasons we see dogs handed into our rehoming centres is a change in the owner’s living circumstances and a lack of available pet-friendly accommodation.

“For most owners, being separated from their pet is no different from being separated from a family member, so we are delighted to join forces with Manor Estates and, with the support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, pilot pet friendly policies which can be adapted and used by other landlords in the future, helping to keep more dogs and owners together.”

Maxine, who rents a property from Manor Estates and lives with her two dogs, added: “My dogs are such a huge part of my life. They are my companions, play a big role in my daily routine and are great company. I have previously tried to find private rented accommodation but have found most landlords have a blanket “no dogs” policy and weren’t willing to compromise, despite my dog being well behaved. This is such a shame, especially in this day and age when so many people live alone; dogs are a great source of companionship, and really good for your mental health.

“Manor Estates has always been so warm and welcoming towards dogs. There were no objections to me moving in with my first dog, and when I requested permission for second, there were no issues at all. I really like that they are supportive of tenants keeping dogs, and they even include information specifically for dog owners in newsletters which is a nice touch.”