Finding an Apartment: Mission Impossible for an OSU Dog-Owner

Finding an apartment on Ohio State’s campus can be the most difficult task that a student faces throughout the year, even more so than finishing classes and final exams. Things become especially difficult if you have a pet. Unfortunately, I am going through this miserable process right now.

If you have read my previous articles, you would know that I have a three pound dog named Percy. He has brought a lot of joy to my life, but at the same time, he is not making it easy for us to find somewhere to live. Many of the landlords around Ohio State’s campus do not allow dogs, or they charge outrageous fees and add to your monthly rent if they do. That is what happened in my current situation. I paid a 300 dollar fee right off the bat for having my dog, and then I have to pay an additional thirty dollars in rent per month. Did I mention that the fee is non-refundable? Yeah. Ridiculous, right? At first, I thought that my landlord was just unkind and was trying to screw me over. But no. Apparently, most landlords discriminate against dogs this way. I even noticed that some places allow cats, but no dogs. Hello! My dog smaller than a cat and he will remain smaller than a cat.  But that does not matter, he will still be discriminated against. I wish the fee was refundable at least. Then, even if my dog ruins your apartment (which he is not even capable of) you can repair it. But since my dog is a little angel, we should get our deposit back.

I hope you guys have had a better experience than me. But if you have yet to search for an apartment, be prepared for the long haul that awaits you!