Moving to a new city
Where can I stay with my pet while I look for a place in a new city?
Updated By the Housing Rocket moderators
Short answer
Look for extended-stay hotels and furnished monthly rentals that state they accept pets, and confirm size, breed and fee rules in writing before you book. Other options are a short sublet or room where the host welcomes pets, a friend's place, or boarding your pet for the first days while you view apartments.
Pet-friendly short stays run out faster than regular ones, so book this part first.
- Ask about weight limits, breed restrictions, the number of pets allowed and whether pets can be left alone in the room.
- Budget for pet fees. Hotels often charge per night or per stay, and furnished rentals may add a cleaning fee.
- Plan viewing days. If your pet cannot stay alone, a day of boarding or doggy daycare frees you to tour.
Get your pet's paperwork ready for landlords, since many screen pets as closely as people: vaccination records, a rabies certificate, spay or neuter records, a recent photo, and a short note from a previous landlord saying your pet caused no problems. Check the new city's rules on pet licensing too.
Rules for assistance animals in housing are different from those for pets. If your animal is one, ask landlords about their reasonable accommodation process. For finding a permanent pet-friendly place, see finding an apartment.
Want the whole picture? Read How to Find Housing Before You Move to a New City.