Over the last decade we have become well versed in the rules which in the main are fair, rational and conducive to harmonious estate living.
One rule that often gets emotions running high is the various pet policies across the differing estates.
Pet ownership has become an integral part of many families’ lives, prompting estates to develop specific policies.
These are generally either no pets at all, two pets (dogs or cats), only dogs not cats, and some allow only dogs below a certain weight.
These polices aim to balance the needs of pet owners with the concerns of other residents.
However, any estate agent will tell you that many a sale or rental has fallen through because of these policies.
A common story for example is a buyer not being able to buy in an estate because they have three, sometimes very old dogs that are impeccably trained and won’t cause any harm or disturbance to anyone.
The estate now potentially misses out on a wonderful family or couple that can add value to the community culture. And god forbid someone has a cat. I really do feel for those owners as their choices are even more limited on the North Coast.
As agents we do see the disappointment and frustration on would be new owners’ faces when they are faced with the painful choice of giving up a beloved furry friend or the home and community they have set their hearts on.
Let us look at the pros and cons.
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The pros include enhanced community bonding and improved mental well-being. Companionship and affection provided by pets can actually reduce stress and anxiety and increase property values.
Estates that permit a wider range of potential buyers and renters increases the demand for that estate and simple economics tells us that’s a good thing for one’s investment.
In a recent survey of the top ten estates in South Africa, seven of them allowed both cats and dogs and these are all outside of KZN.
Cons would be noise and disturbance, damage to property, negative affect on wildlife and aesthetics and hygiene concerns, although some might argue that not all of these are the fault of the furry companion, and perhaps that’s at the crux of the debate.
Where I live, we did suffer some minor noise disturbance from a barking dog which seemed to be left outside on its own for long periods.
The issue is not the pet policy but rather the pet owner.
I for one am not calling for a ban on pets.
A ban would devalue the estate. Frankly, these things can happen anywhere, in an estate or in the suburbs.
Striking a balance between the pros and cons involves thoughtful planning, effective communication and well-defined regulations that accommodate both pet owners and non-pet owners alike.
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