Pets are often a source of happiness and stress relief, but when you’re living with them in close quarters–like an apartment–it’s common for challenges to arise. That being said, you and your pet can live in harmony with the residents around you, it just takes some work and planning.

Here are some do’s and don’ts for sharing an apartment with your pet:

Do | Let Your Pet Get Plenty of Exercise

This might be more applicable to dogs, but all animals need time to let off some steam. Just like you, your pet needs fresh air to thrive, and without a ton of space to run around they’ll get pent up energy, leading to serious health issues. Making walks a part of your daily routine will make your pet much happier and healthier–and you’ll get plenty of exercise yourself!

Luckily, there are plenty of great dog parks in Columbus, such as: Columbus Downtown Dog Park, Wheeler Dog Park, Tail Wags Playground and Scioto Audubon Metro Park. Arena District residents are especially close to McFerson Commons Park, The Scioto Mile and pet walking stations throughout Grandview Yard.

Don’t | Lie to the Leasing Office

While it might be difficult to find a pet-friendly apartment in Columbus, lying about having a pet is a disaster waiting to happen. Not only could you be fined if discovered, but you could also be evicted!

And if you’re sneaking your pet around, chances are your furry friend isn’t getting the attention they need or deserve–which can affect their health in several negative ways. Save yourself a headache and take the extra time to find an apartment that’s animal friendly.

Pet-friendly apartments in downtown Columbus include: Arena Crossing (cats only), Flats on Vine, Flats II, and Apartments at the Yard in Grandview Heights.

Do | Review your Apartment’s Pet Policy

When researching downtown Columbus apartments, it’s a good idea to know what you’ll be dealing with in regard to their individual pet policies. Thoroughly examining your apartment’s pet policy means you’ll understand any deposits or fees that come with housing your pet. Some may even have restrictions on what type of pet you can keep.

Don’t | Disregard Pet Proofing

Items that may seem ordinary to you could be potentially hazardous for your furry friend. We all know pets love getting into things that they shouldn’t, which is why you need to take time to pet proof.

Check for loose wires that could be chewed, do research on house plants to make sure they aren’t poisonous to animals, place valuable items in locked or hard-to-reach places and set up gates in areas you don’t want your pet wandering. Doing these actions and more can prevent loads of future headaches–physically, mentally and financially.

Do | Get a Unit with a Patio or Balcony

Being a pet owner in an apartment means making sure your pet gets outdoor time. While you might not always be able to take them outside on a leash, having a balcony or patio allows your dog or cat to get plenty of fresh air.

Unless your pet lives strictly indoors, having a patio or balcony will make your life much easier. We know it isn’t always possible, but it if you’re able to get a unit with this feature, it will definitely save you from future hassles.

Don’t | Neglect Your Pet

Make sure your pet is getting the attention they need while you’re around, and when you’re not, ensure they have plenty of toys to play with and food to eat.

Depending on your apartment’s pet policy, you can even add an extra furry friend to the mix, so they’ll always have someone to be with. If you want your pet to be maximally taken care of while you’re away, there are a number of pet daycares in Columbus you can drop them off at, including: Doggie Daycare Center, The City Dog Daycare and Playful Pets Columbus.