Pet Management at Clúid Housing
Pets can bring joy, companionship, and comfort to a home. At Clúid Housing, we want to support responsible pet ownership while ensuring our homes and communities remain safe, comfortable, and fair for everyone.
This page explains how to request permission to keep a pet, what happens if pets are kept without permission, and the key rules you need to know.
Requesting Permission to Keep a Pet
- Residents in eligible units may apply to keep a pet. All residents must apply in writing before bringing a pet into their home. Permission must always be requested in advance using the Pet Application Form, available here.
- Your Resident Housing Officer will review your request and let you know the decision in writing.
- If permission is granted, you’ll receive a letter with a declaration form. You must sign and return this within two weeks.
When assessing a request for a pet, we will consider,
- Size of the property – is there enough space for the pet
- Type of property – houses and duplexes may be suitable, some apartments are not
- Number of existing pets – avoid overcrowding or welfare issues
- Size of the pet relative to the property – e.g. a large dog in a small apartment is unsuitable
- Suitability for communal living – impact on neighbours, noise, fouling, shared areas.
When permission may be refused
Your request may be refused if:
- The pet is a restricted or banned breed (see gov.ie Dog Control).
- The breed or type of pet is assessed as unsuitable due to size, temperament, behaviour, or potential risk to neighbours, visitors, or staff.
- The property size or type is not suitable for the pet.
- There are already too many pets in the household.
- The pet does not comply with House Rules or OMC rules.
- The pet is for breeding, business, or commercial purposes.
- The pet is considered exotic or is classed as livestock.
- There is a history of nuisance, damage, or previous issues with pets in the household.
- The pet may pose a risk to neighbours, visitors, or staff.
Unauthorised Pets
If a pet is kept without permission:
- Your Resident Housing Officer will investigate.
- You may receive a breach of tenancy letter with a timescale to rehouse the pet.
Timescales for removal
- Immediate removal: In emergencies such as severe neglect (animal welfare organisations will be involved).
- 24 hours to 7 days: For serious breaches.
- Negotiated timeframe: In some cases, a reasonable period may be agreed.
If the pet is rehoused within the timescale, no further action is needed. If not, further tenancy action may follow, including warnings or referral to the Residential Tenancies Board.
Key Points to Remember
- Always apply for permission before keeping a pet. Permission must always be requested in advance using the Pet Application Form, available here.
- Resident Housing Officers manage applications and investigate unauthorised pets.
- Breaches of tenancy can lead to removal of pets and formal tenancy action.
- Incidents involving pets should be reported in line with Clúid Housing’s Safety Statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep more than one pet?
Yes, but each pet must be approved through the application process. The number of pets allowed depends on the size of your home and the impact on neighbours.
Are assistance dogs included in this policy?
Guide dogs and assistance dogs, that are registered with or trained by accredited organisations such as Irish Guide Dogs or other ADI-accredited bodies, are permitted. Therapy or support dogs must go through the application process with supporting documents.
What happens if I get a pet without permission?
Your Resident Housing Officer will investigate. You may be asked to rehouse the pet within a set timeframe. If this doesn’t happen, further action may follow.
Can I apply for a pet if I live in an apartment?
Not all apartments are suitable for a pet. Additionally, in some apartment complexes, pets are not permitted under House Rules. Check with your Resident Housing Officer if you are unsure of the House Rules in your apartment complex.
What if my circumstances change after I get permission?
If your situation changes (for example, moving to a different property), you’ll need to reapply for permission to keep your pet.
Where can I find the list of restricted dog breeds?
You can find the latest information on restricted and banned breeds on the gov.ie Dog Control website.