June 27, 2026 · 4 min read

Pet-Friendly Roommate Agreement: What to Include

Adopting a dog with your roommates? Getting a cat with your partner? Before you bring home that furry friend, put the terms in writing.

1. Who Owns the Pet?

This is the #1 issue when roommates break up or move apart. Is the pet co-owned equally, or does one person have primary ownership? Who gets the pet if you stop living together? Write it down before it becomes a problem.

2. Expense Split

Food, vet bills, grooming, pet insurance, daycare — pet costs add up fast. Decide whether you're splitting everything 50/50, by income, or if the primary owner covers certain costs.

3. Daily Care Schedule

Who walks the dog in the morning? Who feeds the cat? What about when someone is on vacation? A clear schedule prevents the “I thought you were doing it” argument.

4. House Rules for Pets

Is the pet allowed on furniture? In bedrooms? Are there off-limits areas? What about noise — barking while someone is on a Zoom call? Include these details so everyone is on the same page.

5. Emergency Plan

Who is authorized to make medical decisions? What's the emergency vet contact? How much are you willing to spend on emergency care before getting approval from co-owners?