The Pet-Friendly Debate in Gozo Long Lets – Can Landlords and Pet Owners Find Common Ground?

Jul 27

3 min read

If you've spent any time searching for long-let apartments in Gozo, you'll have noticed one phrase appears again and again:

"No Pets."

For many tenants, those two words can be incredibly frustrating. For landlords, however, the decision is often based on genuine concerns rather than a dislike of animals.

As a Gozo estate agency dealing with long-term rentals every day, we hear both sides of the debate. The reality is that there isn't a simple right or wrong answer.

Why Many Landlords Say "No Pets"

Most rental properties in Gozo come fully furnished. Sofas, beds, wardrobes, curtains and appliances represent a significant investment, and landlords understandably worry about potential damage.

Common concerns include:

Scratched furniture and doors
Damaged flooring
Pet odours
Hair in soft furnishings
Noise complaints from neighbours
Garden damage
Additional cleaning costs between tenancies

Many owners have simply had one bad experience and decided never to allow pets again.

The Tenant's Perspective

For pet owners, however, the situation is equally difficult.

A dog or cat isn't simply an animal—it is part of the family.

Many people relocating to Gozo for work, retirement or a change of lifestyle simply cannot imagine leaving their pets behind. In fact, pet-friendly properties are often among the first to be rented because demand significantly exceeds supply. Guides to the Maltese rental market consistently note that pet-friendly homes are limited and recommend tenants begin searching well in advance.

Is Saying "No Pets" Costing Landlords Money?

Possibly.

Allowing responsible pet owners can dramatically increase the number of potential tenants.

International rental markets have found that pet-friendly properties often benefit from:

Larger pools of applicants
Shorter vacancy periods
Longer tenancy lengths
More loyal tenants
Greater tenant satisfaction

Many pet owners stay in a property for several years simply because finding another pet-friendly home is so difficult.

Responsible Pet Owners Do Exist

Unfortunately, irresponsible pet owners have given everyone a bad reputation.

However, many tenants:

Have well-trained dogs.
Keep indoor cats.
Use professional grooming services.
Carry veterinary records.
Have references from previous landlords.
Treat rental properties as if they were their own home.

Just as not every tenant looks after a property, not every pet owner causes problems.

Finding a Middle Ground

Rather than having a blanket "No Pets" policy, some landlords are choosing a more flexible approach.

This might include:

Meeting the pet before approving the tenancy.
Requesting references from previous landlords.
Agreeing clear pet conditions within the lease.
Charging an additional refundable deposit where appropriate and lawful.
Limiting the number or size of pets.
Requiring any damage caused by pets to be repaired before the tenancy ends.

This allows responsible pet owners to find homes while giving landlords greater confidence.

Why Gozo Is an Ideal Place for Pets

Gozo is naturally suited to pet owners.

With quiet villages, country walks, coastal paths and open spaces, the island offers an excellent environment for dogs and their owners. Many people relocate to Gozo specifically because of its slower pace of life and outdoor lifestyle.

That makes the shortage of pet-friendly rentals even more noticeable.

Our View at Gozo Direct

At Gozo Direct, we work with both landlords and tenants every day.

We completely understand why some owners choose not to allow pets, especially after previous bad experiences.

At the same time, we believe responsible pet owners deserve to be considered individually rather than automatically rejected.

Our approach is simple:

Good tenants make good tenants—whether they own a pet or not.

By encouraging open conversations, sensible tenancy agreements and honest communication from the outset, landlords can often attract reliable long-term tenants while protecting their investment.

Looking for a Pet-Friendly Rental in Gozo?

If you're searching for a pet-friendly apartment or house in Gozo, or you're a landlord wondering whether opening your property to responsible pet owners could widen your market, we'd be happy to help.

We regularly work with both landlords and tenants to find practical solutions that work for everyone.

Browse the latest Gozo long lets at www.gozo.direct or contact Anthony Reed on +356 7926 8080 for friendly, honest advice about renting property in Gozo.