Once you've found a pet-friendly apartment, you can start visiting pet stores and rescues to find the pet you've always wanted. When you do, it's important to keep your living arrangements in mind. Not all pets will be well suited for apartment life, so finding a place to rent that will allow animals is only part of the equation.

What Should You Consider Before Making a Choice?

1. Care Needs

Most animals need exercise. If they're small or low energy, they can usually get that inside an apartment; however, larger dogs, like retrievers, need room to stretch their legs. If your pet needs a daily walk, find a dog park or a scenic path around your apartment to get their energy out.

Some pets, like fish or reptiles, may not need you to exercise them, but they do have other care needs. Some species are easier to care for than others; for example, leopard geckos and bearded dragons are best for beginners. Leopard geckos don’t need any specialized lighting and can fit comfortably in a 15- or 20-gallon tank. Bearded dragons need a bit more room, but they are very tame.

2. Age

If you're getting a cat or dog, consider adopting an older, trained animal. Puppies and kittens are cute, but they're difficult to teach and can make messes that will lose you your deposit on the apartment. They also tend to be more energetic and need more attention; older animals are usually calmer and easy to keep quiet in a small apartment.

3. Temperament

This can vary from one individual to another, so it's always good to meet and interact with the cat or dog you're considering before making a final decision. However, you can get at least a rough idea of a dog or cat's behavior based on its breed. Basset hounds, greyhounds, terriers, and pugs are quiet dogs that do well in apartments, and Birmans, ragdolls, and American shorthairs are the best cat breeds for this environment.

If you're still looking for a pet-friendly apartment to move into, choose Belmont Run and The Studios at Belmont in Lexington, KY. Since 1976, their 226-unit Fayette County campus has offered 24/7 maintenance, reliable security, and comfortable living spaces. To ask about availability, call (859) 254-8230 or check their website. You can also follow them on Instagram.