What Is Pet Screen? Comprehensive Guide For Pet Owners

What Is Pet Screen? It’s a crucial process for landlords and tenants, ensuring responsible pet ownership and harmonious living. PETS.EDU.VN offers valuable insights and resources to navigate pet screenings successfully, promoting informed decisions for both parties and fostering positive pet-friendly communities. Discover comprehensive guides, expert advice, and practical tools to confidently address pet policies, screenings, and responsible pet ownership.

Table of Contents

Understanding Pet Screening: An Overview
Why Landlords Use Pet Screening
Pet Screening vs. Pet Interviews: What’s The Difference?
The Pet Screening Process: A Tenant’s Guide
Essential Tips for a Successful Pet Screening
Crafting the Perfect Pet Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide
Landlord’s Pet Screening Checklist: Key Questions To Ask
Preparing Your Dog for the Screening: Training and Socialization
Navigating Breed Restrictions and Weight Limits
Understanding Pet Deposits and Pet Fees
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals: Your Rights
The Role of PetScreening.com in the Process
Alternatives to Pet Screening: Other Assessment Methods
How to Handle a Pet Screening Rejection
Legal Considerations for Pet Screenings
The Future of Pet Screening: Trends and Predictions
The Benefits of Pet-Friendly Housing
Addressing Common Concerns About Pets in Rental Properties
PETS.EDU.VN: Your Go-To Resource for Pet-Related Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pet Screening

1. Understanding Pet Screening: An Overview

Pet screening is a detailed evaluation process used by landlords and property managers to assess potential pet-owning tenants. It goes beyond simply asking if an applicant has a pet. Pet screening delves into the pet’s history, behavior, and health to determine the potential risk and compatibility of the pet with the rental property. This comprehensive process helps ensure a safe and harmonious living environment for all residents.

The goal of pet screening is to provide landlords with a clear picture of the pet’s temperament, vaccination history, and any potential behavioral issues. Landlords can make informed decisions, minimize risks, and create a pet-friendly community that benefits both pet owners and non-pet owners by gathering this information.

This assessment process often involves a combination of methods, including:

Application Forms: Detailed questionnaires about the pet’s history, behavior, and health.
Veterinarian Records: Proof of vaccinations, health checkups, and any relevant medical conditions.
Interviews: Conversations with the pet owner to assess their pet’s temperament and their ability to care for the pet responsibly.
Pet Resumes: Documents highlighting the pet’s positive attributes, training, and references.
Third-Party Screening Services: Companies that specialize in pet screenings and provide comprehensive reports to landlords.

2. Why Landlords Use Pet Screening

Landlords use pet screening for several important reasons, all aimed at protecting their property, maintaining a safe environment, and minimizing potential issues. By implementing pet screening, landlords can:

Minimize Property Damage: Pets, especially untrained ones, can cause damage to rental properties. Pet screening helps landlords assess the risk of potential damage, such as scratched doors, chewed carpets, or stained floors.
Reduce Liability: Landlords can reduce their liability by screening pets for aggressive behavior. This helps ensure the safety of other tenants and visitors on the property.
Prevent Noise Complaints: Excessive barking or other disruptive pet noises can lead to complaints from other tenants. Pet screening can help identify pets prone to noise issues.
Ensure Compliance with Insurance Policies: Some insurance policies have restrictions on certain pet breeds or sizes. Pet screening helps landlords ensure compliance with these policies.
Maintain a Pet-Friendly Community: Pet screening can help create a community of responsible pet owners who are committed to keeping their pets under control and respecting the property.
Make Informed Decisions: Pet screening provides landlords with the information they need to make informed decisions about whether or not to allow a pet on their property.

Ultimately, pet screening benefits both landlords and tenants by creating a clear understanding of expectations and responsibilities.

3. Pet Screening vs. Pet Interviews: What’s The Difference?

Pet screening and pet interviews are both methods used to evaluate potential pet-owning tenants, but they differ in their scope and approach. Understanding the distinctions between the two can help tenants prepare effectively and landlords choose the best method for their needs.

Pet Screening:

Comprehensive Evaluation: Pet screening is a more in-depth process that involves gathering information from various sources, such as application forms, veterinarian records, and third-party screening services.
Objective Assessment: Pet screening aims to provide an objective assessment of the pet’s risk based on data and verifiable information.
Standardized Process: Pet screening often follows a standardized process, ensuring that all applicants are evaluated fairly and consistently.
Focus on History and Behavior: Pet screening places a strong emphasis on the pet’s past behavior, training, and health history.

Pet Interviews:

Personal Interaction: Pet interviews involve a face-to-face meeting between the landlord and the pet owner.
Subjective Assessment: Pet interviews rely more on the landlord’s personal impressions and judgment of the pet and owner.
Informal Process: Pet interviews tend to be less formal and structured than pet screenings.
Focus on Temperament and Compatibility: Pet interviews focus on assessing the pet’s temperament, socialization skills, and overall compatibility with the rental property.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:

Feature	Pet Screening	Pet Interviews
Scope	Comprehensive, data-driven	Personal, impression-based
Objectivity	Objective assessment	Subjective assessment
Process	Standardized	Informal
Focus	History, behavior, and health	Temperament, socialization, and compatibility
Data Sources	Applications, records, third-party services	Direct observation and conversation

4. The Pet Screening Process: A Tenant’s Guide

As a tenant, understanding the pet screening process can alleviate anxiety and help you prepare effectively. While the specific steps may vary depending on the landlord or property management company, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Application: The process typically begins with a pet application. This form will ask for detailed information about your pet, including their name, age, breed, weight, vaccination history, and any relevant behavioral information.
Documentation: You may be required to provide supporting documentation, such as:
- Veterinarian records showing proof of vaccinations and health checkups.
- Photos of your pet.
- Training certificates or awards.
- References from previous landlords or pet sitters.
Interview: Some landlords may conduct a pet interview, either in person or via video call. This is an opportunity for the landlord to meet your pet and assess their temperament.
Property Visit: The landlord may want to see how your pet behaves in the rental property. This could involve a walk around the building or a visit to the apartment unit.
Third-Party Screening: Some landlords use third-party screening services like PetScreening.com to conduct a more thorough assessment. These services may involve background checks, behavioral assessments, and risk scoring.
Decision: After reviewing all the information, the landlord will make a decision about whether or not to approve your pet.

5. Essential Tips for a Successful Pet Screening

To increase your chances of a successful pet screening, consider these helpful tips:

Be Honest and Transparent: Provide accurate information on your pet application and during any interviews. Honesty builds trust with the landlord.
Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documents, such as vaccination records, training certificates, and references, before starting the screening process.
Prepare Your Pet: Ensure your pet is well-groomed, well-behaved, and up-to-date on all vaccinations.
Highlight Positive Traits: Emphasize your pet’s positive attributes, such as their friendly temperament, training, and experience living in an apartment.
Address Potential Concerns: Be prepared to address any potential concerns the landlord may have, such as breed restrictions or noise issues.
Create a Pet Resume: A well-crafted pet resume can showcase your pet’s best qualities and make a positive impression on the landlord.
Be Professional and Respectful: Treat the pet screening process seriously and communicate with the landlord in a professional and respectful manner.

6. Crafting the Perfect Pet Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide

A pet resume is a powerful tool that can help your pet stand out from the crowd. It’s a document that highlights your pet’s best qualities and demonstrates your commitment to responsible pet ownership. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating an effective pet resume:

Choose a Professional Photo: Select a high-quality photo of your pet that captures their personality and positive traits. Choose a photo where your pet looks happy, calm, and well-groomed.
Include Basic Information: Provide essential details about your pet, such as:
- Name
- Age
- Breed
- Weight
- Gender
- Spayed/Neutered (yes/no)
Highlight Health and Vaccination Status: Include a summary of your pet’s health and vaccination status. List the dates of their most recent vaccinations and any relevant medical conditions.
Showcase Training and Skills: Describe any training your pet has received, such as obedience classes, agility training, or socialization programs. Highlight any special skills or talents your pet possesses.
Describe Temperament and Personality: Provide a detailed description of your pet’s temperament and personality. Emphasize their positive traits, such as their friendly, gentle, or playful nature.
Add an “About Me” Section: Write a brief paragraph about your relationship with your pet and why they would make a great tenant. Include information about their daily routine, exercise habits, and experience living in an apartment.
Include References: Obtain references from previous landlords, pet sitters, or trainers who can vouch for your pet’s good behavior.
Proofread Carefully: Before submitting your pet resume, proofread it carefully for any errors in grammar or spelling.
Keep it Concise: Aim for a one-page resume that is easy to read and highlights the most important information.

Here’s a simple template you can adapt:

Section	Details
Basic Information	Name: [Pet’s Name] Age: [Pet’s Age] Breed: [Pet’s Breed] Weight: [Pet’s Weight] Gender: [Pet’s Gender] Spayed/Neutered: [Yes/No]
Health & Vax	Vaccination Status: Up-to-date Last Vaccination Date: [Date] Medical Conditions: [If any, list them]
Training & Skills	Training: [Obedience, Agility, etc.] Skills: [List any special skills]
Temperament	Personality: [Friendly, Calm, Playful, etc.] Behavior around other animals: [Good/Not Good] Behavior around children: [Good/Not Good]
About Me	Daily Routine: [Describe daily activities] Exercise Habits: [Describe exercise habits] Why I’d be a great tenant: [Explain why your pet would be a good fit]
References	[Name & Contact Info of Previous Landlord/Pet Sitter/Trainer]
Photo	[Insert a high-quality photo of your pet]

7. Landlord’s Pet Screening Checklist: Key Questions To Ask

For landlords, a pet screening checklist can ensure a consistent and thorough evaluation process. Here are some key questions to ask potential pet-owning tenants:

What type of pet do you have?
How long have you owned your pet?
Can you provide a letter from your vet confirming your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations?
Can you provide a written reference for your pet from a current or previous landlord?
Does your pet have any behavioral or medical problems? If so, what training or treatment are you using?
Who cares for your pet if you’re away on vacation or during a medical emergency?
Are you willing to pay a pet security deposit or pet fee?
Is your pet housetrained or litter-trained?
How much time does your pet spend alone each day?
Does your pet bark excessively or exhibit any other disruptive behaviors?
Are you aware of any breed restrictions or weight limits in the building or community?
Do you have a plan for managing your pet’s waste and ensuring cleanliness?

8. Preparing Your Dog for the Screening: Training and Socialization

If you have a dog, preparing them for the pet screening is crucial. A well-trained and socialized dog will make a positive impression on the landlord and increase your chances of approval. Here are some tips for preparing your dog:

Basic Obedience Training: Ensure your dog knows and responds to basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.”
Leash Training: Practice walking your dog on a leash without pulling or lunging.
Socialization: Expose your dog to various people, dogs, and environments to help them become well-adjusted and confident.
Grooming: Bathe and groom your dog before the screening to ensure they look their best.
Calming Techniques: If your dog is anxious or excitable, practice calming techniques such as deep breathing or massage.
Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to reward good behavior during training and the screening.
Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearse the screening process with your dog to help them become familiar with the environment and expectations.

9. Navigating Breed Restrictions and Weight Limits

Breed restrictions and weight limits are common in rental properties. Understanding how to navigate these policies is essential for pet owners.

Know the Restrictions: Before applying to a rental property, carefully review the pet policies and identify any breed restrictions or weight limits.
Be Honest About Breed: Accurately identify your dog’s breed on the pet application. Misrepresenting your dog’s breed can lead to eviction.
Provide Documentation: If your dog is a mixed breed, provide documentation from a veterinarian or dog DNA test to confirm their breed composition.
Highlight Temperament: Emphasize your dog’s good temperament and training to alleviate concerns about breed-specific stereotypes.
Seek Exceptions: If your dog exceeds the weight limit by a small margin, ask if the landlord is willing to make an exception based on their temperament and behavior.
Consider Alternatives: If your dog’s breed is restricted, consider looking for rental properties that do not have breed restrictions or that are more lenient with their policies.

Here’s a list of breeds commonly restricted:

Pit Bulls (American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier)
Rottweilers
Doberman Pinschers
Chows
German Shepherds
Presa Canarios
Akitas
Wolf Hybrids
Mastiffs
Cane Corsos

10. Understanding Pet Deposits and Pet Fees

Pet deposits and pet fees are charges that landlords may require to offset the potential costs associated with pet ownership. Understanding the differences between the two can help you budget accordingly:

Pet Deposit: A pet deposit is a refundable sum of money that is used to cover any damages caused by your pet. The deposit is typically returned to you at the end of the lease, provided there are no pet-related damages.
Pet Fee: A pet fee is a non-refundable charge that is used to cover the general costs of allowing pets on the property, such as increased wear and tear, cleaning, and maintenance.
Reasonable Amounts: Landlords must charge reasonable amounts for pet deposits and fees. The specific amount may vary depending on the location and the type of pet.
Negotiation: You may be able to negotiate the amount of the pet deposit or fee with the landlord, especially if you have a well-trained and well-behaved pet.
Alternatives: Some landlords may offer alternatives to pet deposits or fees, such as pet rent, which is a monthly charge added to your rent.

11. Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals: Your Rights

Service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) have specific legal protections under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). Understanding your rights as a tenant with a service animal or ESA is crucial.

Service Animals: Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. They are legally protected under the FHA and are exempt from pet restrictions and fees.
Emotional Support Animals: ESAs provide emotional support and comfort to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities. They are also protected under the FHA but require documentation from a licensed mental health professional.
Reasonable Accommodation: Landlords must provide reasonable accommodation to tenants with service animals or ESAs, even if they have a “no pets” policy.
Documentation: Landlords can request documentation from a licensed professional to verify the need for a service animal or ESA.
No Breed Restrictions: Landlords cannot discriminate against service animals or ESAs based on breed or weight.
No Pet Fees: Landlords cannot charge pet fees or pet deposits for service animals or ESAs.
Responsible Ownership: Tenants are still responsible for the behavior of their service animals or ESAs and must ensure they do not cause damage or disruption to the property.

12. The Role of PetScreening.com in the Process

PetScreening.com is a third-party service that helps landlords and tenants streamline the pet screening process. It provides a comprehensive assessment of pets based on various factors, such as breed, age, weight, vaccination history, and behavior.

Comprehensive Assessment: PetScreening.com gathers information from multiple sources to provide a detailed report on each pet.
Risk Scoring: The service assigns a risk score to each pet based on their profile, helping landlords assess the potential risks associated with allowing the pet on their property.
Standardized Process: PetScreening.com provides a standardized process for evaluating pets, ensuring that all applicants are treated fairly and consistently.
Legal Compliance: The service helps landlords comply with fair housing laws and avoid discrimination against certain breeds or types of pets.
Tenant Benefits: PetScreening.com can help tenants showcase their pet’s best qualities and increase their chances of approval.
Streamlined Process: The service streamlines the pet screening process, saving time and effort for both landlords and tenants.

13. Alternatives to Pet Screening: Other Assessment Methods

While pet screening is a popular method for assessing potential pet-owning tenants, other alternatives exist. Landlords may choose these alternatives based on their preferences, resources, and the specific needs of their property.

Pet References: Requesting references from previous landlords, pet sitters, or trainers can provide valuable insights into a pet’s behavior and the owner’s responsibility.
Pet Interviews: Conducting a face-to-face interview with the pet and owner can help landlords assess the pet’s temperament and the owner’s ability to care for the pet responsibly.
Trial Periods: Offering a trial period during which the pet can live on the property under close supervision can help landlords assess their suitability.
Increased Security Deposits: Charging a higher security deposit can provide additional financial protection in case of pet-related damages.
Specific Pet Policies: Implementing clear and specific pet policies can help set expectations and minimize potential issues.
Visual Inspections: Conducting regular visual inspections of the property can help identify any pet-related damages or issues early on.

Here’s a table comparing these alternatives:

Method	Description	Pros	Cons
Pet References	Contacting previous landlords or pet professionals for insights.	Provides third-party validation of pet behavior and owner responsibility.	Relies on subjective opinions; may not be comprehensive.
Pet Interviews	Meeting the pet and owner in person to assess temperament and responsibility.	Allows direct observation of pet behavior and interaction with the owner.	Subjective assessment; may not reveal long-term behavior.
Trial Periods	Allowing the pet to live on the property under supervision for a limited time.	Provides a realistic assessment of the pet’s suitability for the property.	Logistically challenging; may require extra supervision.
Increased Deposits	Charging a higher security deposit for pet owners.	Offers financial protection against potential damages.	May deter some tenants; doesn’t prevent behavior issues.
Specific Pet Policies	Implementing clear rules and guidelines for pet ownership on the property.	Sets clear expectations and responsibilities for pet owners.	Requires consistent enforcement; may not address all potential issues.
Visual Inspections	Regularly checking the property for pet-related damage or issues.	Allows early detection of problems and ensures compliance with pet policies.	Requires time and effort; may not catch subtle damage.

14. How to Handle a Pet Screening Rejection

Receiving a pet screening rejection can be disappointing, but it’s important to handle the situation professionally and explore your options.

Ask for Feedback: Request feedback from the landlord or screening service to understand the reasons for the rejection.
Address the Issues: If possible, address the issues that led to the rejection. This may involve additional training, behavior modification, or providing further documentation.
Appeal the Decision: If you believe the rejection was unfair or based on inaccurate information, consider appealing the decision.
Seek Legal Advice: If you believe you have been discriminated against based on your pet’s breed or type, seek legal advice from a fair housing organization.
Look for Pet-Friendly Alternatives: Focus your search on rental properties that are more pet-friendly or that do not have breed restrictions.
Consider Pet-Sitting or Boarding: If you need to move urgently and cannot find a pet-friendly rental, consider temporarily pet-sitting or boarding your pet.

15. Legal Considerations for Pet Screenings

Pet screenings are subject to various legal considerations, particularly concerning fair housing laws and discrimination. Landlords must be aware of these laws to avoid potential legal issues.

Fair Housing Act (FHA): The FHA prohibits discrimination based on disability, which includes discrimination against individuals with service animals or emotional support animals.
Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL): Breed-specific legislation, which restricts or bans certain dog breeds, is controversial and may be illegal in some areas.
Reasonable Accommodation: Landlords must provide reasonable accommodation to tenants with service animals or ESAs, even if they have a “no pets” policy.
Documentation Requirements: Landlords can request documentation from a licensed professional to verify the need for a service animal or ESA, but they cannot ask for excessive or intrusive information.
Privacy Laws: Landlords must comply with privacy laws when collecting and storing information about tenants and their pets.
State and Local Laws: State and local laws may have additional regulations regarding pet ownership and pet screenings.

16. The Future of Pet Screening: Trends and Predictions

The pet screening industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging. Here are some predictions for the future of pet screening:

Increased Use of Technology: Technology will play an increasingly important role in pet screenings, with the development of new tools for assessing pet behavior, health, and risk.
More Comprehensive Assessments: Pet screenings will become more comprehensive, incorporating data from various sources, such as wearable devices, video monitoring, and social media.
Focus on Responsible Pet Ownership: Pet screenings will place a greater emphasis on responsible pet ownership, assessing the owner’s knowledge, skills, and commitment to providing proper care for their pet.
Personalized Pet Policies: Landlords will develop more personalized pet policies based on the individual characteristics of each pet, rather than relying on blanket restrictions.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Landlords will increasingly rely on data and analytics to make informed decisions about pet ownership, reducing the risk of pet-related issues.
Integration with Property Management Software: Pet screening tools will become more integrated with property management software, streamlining the process for both landlords and tenants.

17. The Benefits of Pet-Friendly Housing

Pet-friendly housing offers numerous benefits for both landlords and tenants. Creating a pet-friendly community can attract responsible pet owners, increase tenant satisfaction, and boost property value.

Attract Responsible Tenants: Pet-friendly housing attracts responsible pet owners who are willing to pay higher rents and deposits.
Reduce Vacancy Rates: Pet-friendly properties tend to have lower vacancy rates, as pet owners are more likely to stay longer.
Increase Tenant Satisfaction: Allowing pets can improve tenant satisfaction and create a more positive living environment.
Boost Property Value: Pet-friendly amenities, such as dog parks and pet washing stations, can increase property value and attract a wider range of tenants.
Create a Sense of Community: Pets can help foster a sense of community among tenants, providing opportunities for socialization and interaction.
Promote Responsible Pet Ownership: Pet-friendly communities often have stricter pet policies, which can promote responsible pet ownership and minimize pet-related issues.

18. Addressing Common Concerns About Pets in Rental Properties

Landlords often have concerns about allowing pets in their rental properties. Addressing these concerns proactively can help ease their minds and increase your chances of approval.

Damage to Property: Landlords worry about pets causing damage to the property. To address this concern, offer to pay a higher security deposit and provide references from previous landlords who can vouch for your pet’s good behavior.
Noise Complaints: Excessive barking or other disruptive pet noises can lead to complaints from other tenants. To address this concern, demonstrate that your pet is well-trained and does not bark excessively.
Allergies: Landlords may be concerned about allergies from other tenants. To address this concern, offer to clean the property regularly and use hypoallergenic pet products.
Liability: Landlords worry about being liable for injuries caused by pets. To address this concern, provide proof of liability insurance and demonstrate that your pet is well-socialized and not aggressive.
Cleanliness: Landlords may be concerned about pets making the property unclean. To address this concern, commit to cleaning up after your pet and maintaining a clean living environment.

19. PETS.EDU.VN: Your Go-To Resource for Pet-Related Information

PETS.EDU.VN is dedicated to providing comprehensive and reliable information on all aspects of pet ownership. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or a first-time adopter, PETS.EDU.VN offers a wealth of resources to help you provide the best possible care for your furry friend.

Expert Advice: Access articles and guides written by veterinarians, trainers, and other pet care professionals.
Comprehensive Guides: Explore in-depth guides on various topics, such as pet health, nutrition, behavior, and training.
Breed Information: Learn about different pet breeds, their characteristics, and their specific needs.
Local Resources: Find local veterinarians, groomers, trainers, and other pet-related services in your area.
Community Forum: Connect with other pet owners in our community forum and share your experiences and advice.
Latest News and Trends: Stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends in the pet industry.

Looking for reliable information to navigate the complexities of pet ownership? Visit PETS.EDU.VN at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States, or contact us via WhatsApp at +1 555-987-6543. PETS.EDU.VN is your trusted partner in providing the best care for your beloved pets.

20. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pet Screening

Here are some frequently asked questions about pet screening:

Q1: What is pet screening?
Pet screening is a process used by landlords to assess potential pet-owning tenants by evaluating a pet’s history, behavior, and health.

Q2: Why do landlords use pet screening?
Landlords use pet screening to minimize property damage, reduce liability, prevent noise complaints, ensure compliance with insurance policies, maintain a pet-friendly community, and make informed decisions.

Q3: What information is typically included in a pet screening?
A pet screening typically includes information about the pet’s name, age, breed, weight, vaccination history, behavioral information, and references.

Q4: What is a pet resume?
A pet resume is a document that highlights your pet’s best qualities and demonstrates your commitment to responsible pet ownership.

Q5: Are there legal considerations for pet screenings?
Yes, pet screenings are subject to fair housing laws and discrimination laws, particularly concerning service animals and emotional support animals.

Q6: Can landlords charge pet fees or pet deposits for service animals or emotional support animals?
No, landlords cannot charge pet fees or pet deposits for service animals or emotional support animals.

Q7: What are some alternatives to pet screening?
Alternatives to pet screening include pet references, pet interviews, trial periods, increased security deposits, and specific pet policies.

Q8: What should I do if my pet is rejected during pet screening?
If your pet is rejected, ask for feedback, address the issues, appeal the decision, seek legal advice if necessary, look for pet-friendly alternatives, or consider pet-sitting or boarding.

Q9: How can I prepare my dog for pet screening?
Prepare your dog for pet screening by providing basic obedience training, leash training, socialization, grooming, and practicing calming techniques.

Q10: Where can I find more information about pet ownership and pet screenings?
Visit pets.edu.vn for expert advice, comprehensive guides, breed information, and local resources for all your pet-related needs.