Teresa Costello (Fianna Fail)

I am raising this issue today for the first time in this House but it is not my first time to raise it as a public representative. During my time on South Dublin County Council, I highlighted my concerns in regard to this issue. I was prompted to raise the issue as I was contacted many times by people who were deeply torn when they received an offer of housing as it was under the condition that they could not bring their pet. One of my last motions as a councillor proposed that South Dublin County Council engage with AHBs regarding no-pet policies when allocating housing. Pets are an integral part of the family and people should not be faced with the decision to surrender them or refuse an offer.

I was advised at the time that the council had previously engaged with approved housing bodies regarding no-pet policies. This policy is in place often at the request of a management company in a multi-unit development. Some of the reasons that pets are refused include inadequate space to hold a pet, the possibility of a pet becoming a noise nuisance to neighbours and damage to the property. Exceptions to this can be made in the case of tenants with a disability that requires an assistance or guide dog. I was told that the council will always advise prospective tenants whether pets are permitted in a property to enable applicants to make an informed decision.

The issue is not whether tenants are being notified of the no-pet policies; it is that they have to make the decision at all. Owning a pet is a natural part of the life cycle for many people. Over half of Irish households have pets, with 28% owning only a dog and 12% a cat. A pet provides companionship and emotional support and is a valued family member. We saw this during the pandemic as one in five pet owners acquired a pet during the pandemic. Over 85% of pet owners report the positive effect on their mental health and well-being, underscoring the significant role that pets play in emotional support. For those living alone, children with special needs, the elderly and families in general, pets provide comfort, connection and structure.

Despite this, only 7% of rental properties listed on Daft allow pets, making it exceedingly difficult for pet owners to find suitable housing. Dogs Trust reported a 112% increase in the number of people needing to give up their dogs due to housing restrictions over the past five years and, in 2024 alone, it received an average of 431 calls and emails daily from individuals facing this dilemma. While there is a need for certain restrictions, it is imperative that we revise and review policies to develop guidelines that balance the needs of tenants with the welfare of the community.There must be fair, clear, concise and consistent rules across local authorities and housing bodies. With that being said, there should be room for reasonable flexibility and exceptions, particularly for responsible pet owners with suitable housing. Above all, we must ensure individuals are not forced to choose between their pets and a home. It certainly should not be a management company that is calling the shots on this. Pets are not just mere animals; they are parts of a family who provide companionship, love and support. By reconsidering restrictive pet policies, we can create a more inclusive housing system that recognises the importance of pets in the lives of many tenants.