It’s Not Necessarily A Dog’s (or Cat’s) Life in a Manufactured Home Community

“Good fences make good neighbors” the proverb tells us but there’s really a lot more to the relationship than that. Neighbors respect and communicate with each other and on occasion come together to improve the quality of life for all in the neighborhood. This holds true whether you live in a city high rise, a suburban street or a manufactured housing community.

Likewise, nothing will sour the spirit of neighborliness faster than an animal run amuck. The dog constantly barking at night, the cat scratching at someone else’s door — no matter how cute they are, pets have a frightening potential to drain all the goodwill out of your relationship with your neighbors. If you’re pondering bringing a favorite fur-baby into a manufactured housing community, here are some things to consider.

Know the Rules: Does your manufactured home community allow pets? If they don’t, look elsewhere because bringing your pet into such a community constitutes a breach of contract and no one wants that hassle. Also be aware that community websites do not always reflect the most recent policy updates; if you have any doubts regarding the pet policy, pick up the phone and ask directly.

Limitations: Even communities that welcome pets might have specific limitations regarding types, breeds, size and number of animals. Again, to ensure you are accessing the latest information regarding these regulations, a phone call is warranted.

Licensed and Tagged: Some communities might not require you to make sure your pet is fully licensed, tagged and vaccinated but as the owner you should want to do this anyway. It’s a small step you can take to help bolster the community’s sense of security plus it will be extremely useful if you pet should wander off and get lost.

Keep Them on Leash: Suffice it to say, if you live in a pet-friendly community, it is always good practice to keep your dog or cat restrained and safe. Most manufactured homes lack standard fences between lots and this can become problematic if your pet develops a habit of going AWOL. Leash training is a must for pets, since it keeps them calm and relaxed around other people while also preventing them from escaping or losing their way home.

Spay or Neuter: As any animal control officer can tell you, each spring brings a new wave of stray puppies and kittens with no home and few prospects. Spaying and neutering your pets at the appropriate age is both responsible citizenship and a way to assure the successful co-existence of your pets and human friends. Remember to check community policies regarding spaying and neutering.

Don’t Leave Them Unattended: You may love your pets but others might find them a nuisance, particularly if they are prone to barking at neighbors or tearing up flower beds. And then there’s the fact that many people are allergic to cat dander. You get the idea —  giving your pets free roam of the community is one sure way to antagonize your neighbors. The answer is to know where your pet is at all times. Also be aware that some communities require a pet deposit as insurance against accidental damages brought about by your four-legged friend.

At Harmony Communities, we feel strongly that each resident has a sense of home. That they come home from work and feel pride in their environment and in their place in the greater community. That families are comfortable raising children in our neighborhoods, and that couples and singles know that they belong to something bigger than their four walls. In other words, we seek to create harmony within each community, making our communities not just passable, but peaceful, safe, functional, and beautiful.