Renting with pets: Owner had to give up his dog to get a home

James stayed in a friend’s converted garage for six months while he continued searching for his own place, but had to move out when the friend and his partner had a baby.

It was then James said he faced the “most frustrating, upsetting” decision to give up Bruno.

“He’s only ever known me from a puppy. As far as I’m concerned, I’m his entire world,” James said.

“They’re not just a pet, you know – you do treat them like one of the family.”

James found someone else nearby willing to adopt Bruno, but said the moment he gave him away was “gut wrenching”.

“It’s only been two months, and still now I have sad moments,” he said.

After he gave Bruno up, James said he saw an instant change in responses from landlords and agencies.

“As soon as I rehomed Bruno, I had a viewing within two days, I had the keys in my hand within a week,” he said.