Make Alberta Rental Properties Pet Friendly
The Issue
Living in Alberta, I have seen first-hand the deep bond Canadians form with their pets. In our community, nearly 80% of families treasure these irreplaceable animal companions, considering them vital family members. However, finding a rental property that accepts pets is an arduous task, exacerbated even further by the current housing crisis.
In Canada, more than 60% of households include cats and dogs, with over 70% of pet owners viewing them as part of their family. Despite this, current rental policies across Alberta make it almost impossible for pet owners to secure housing, forcing many to face heart-wrenching decisions between their homes and their beloved pets.
The benefits of pet ownership are well-documented: pets reduce stress, alleviate depression, lessen loneliness, and foster social connections. These outcomes directly align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, which advocate for more inclusive and sustainable communities. Thus, making rental properties pet-friendly isn't just an ethical decision, it's a step towards fulfilling global commitments to better human welfare.
Moreover, the restrictions on pets contribute significantly to the current housing crisis by limiting the available options for pet owners. Tenants are more stable and happier when they can keep their pets. Studies show that pet-friendly housing tends to have lower vacancy rates and longer tenancies, increasing community stability.
To solve this, we propose a policy change across Alberta that would make it mandatory for all rental properties to allow pets, with reasonable conditions to protect property owners. For instance, requiring tenants to have pet insurance could address concerns about potential property damage.
We urge our policymakers and housing authorities in Alberta to recognize the undeniable importance of pets in our lives. Let's take action to create communities that are inclusive, supportive, and reflective of our values as Canadians. Sign this petition and help make Alberta a place where pets and people thrive together.
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The Issue
Living in Alberta, I have seen first-hand the deep bond Canadians form with their pets. In our community, nearly 80% of families treasure these irreplaceable animal companions, considering them vital family members. However, finding a rental property that accepts pets is an arduous task, exacerbated even further by the current housing crisis.
In Canada, more than 60% of households include cats and dogs, with over 70% of pet owners viewing them as part of their family. Despite this, current rental policies across Alberta make it almost impossible for pet owners to secure housing, forcing many to face heart-wrenching decisions between their homes and their beloved pets.
The benefits of pet ownership are well-documented: pets reduce stress, alleviate depression, lessen loneliness, and foster social connections. These outcomes directly align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, which advocate for more inclusive and sustainable communities. Thus, making rental properties pet-friendly isn't just an ethical decision, it's a step towards fulfilling global commitments to better human welfare.
Moreover, the restrictions on pets contribute significantly to the current housing crisis by limiting the available options for pet owners. Tenants are more stable and happier when they can keep their pets. Studies show that pet-friendly housing tends to have lower vacancy rates and longer tenancies, increasing community stability.
To solve this, we propose a policy change across Alberta that would make it mandatory for all rental properties to allow pets, with reasonable conditions to protect property owners. For instance, requiring tenants to have pet insurance could address concerns about potential property damage.
We urge our policymakers and housing authorities in Alberta to recognize the undeniable importance of pets in our lives. Let's take action to create communities that are inclusive, supportive, and reflective of our values as Canadians. Sign this petition and help make Alberta a place where pets and people thrive together.
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Petition created on November 3, 2026