So the landlord isn’t exactly the cat or dog person. Especially not the iguana or Burmese python type of guy. He even detests having little noisy kids around. But you’re the exact opposite who just can’t let a poor helpless kitten all by itself in the middle of the street ready to be picked on my the pound or an SUV’s hulking wheel. So how can you convince Mr. Groucho to accept poor little kitty in your apartment.

Check the law. Some states have legislated policies that would allow pets in apartments especially if tenants fall under “special circumstance” like a visually-impaired person needing a seeing-eye dog. This could override the apartment’s/landlord’s no-pet policy. Law trumps Mr. Groucho!

Bribe the landlord. If that should work and that’s how much you love your pooch or kitty then it might be worth a try.

Try some maneuvering. Vouch for your pet by offering a deposit on the things that your pet might break or damage (piddling on the hall carpet, scratching the wallpaper…). Or better yet, have your contract amended to allow you to have a pet with the clause that you’ll be responsible for the damages.

Present your pet to the landlord. Groom your little critter so that it would be at its best. Make it wear a cute little shirt or tie a bow-tie around you’re little pooch’s neck for a collar. Let Mr. Groucho stare into those little puppy-dog eyes and watch the old bastard melt with pity for your little pet.

If you’re moving in to a new place. Get a letter from your old landlord to vouch for your pet’s good behavior and that no one in your apartment ever got pissed off with your lovable little companion.