10-15 years ago you would have been hard-pressed to find an apartment in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, that accepted pets – especially dogs. As the rental market developed landlords opted to position themselves against the competition by adopting more lax pet policies. Today you’ll find that the majority of apartments in downtown Madison accept pets in some shape or fashion. However, this past week the Humane Society of the United States reached out to 306 west as the pet policy not only stood out for Wisconsin, but was unique on a national level as well. The Human Society found that very few rental communities in the nation had as welcoming of a pet policy as 306 West, and wanted to know what our experience has been thus far.

“One of the major reasons animals wind up in shelters is because their owners can’t find housing that will allow them to bring their pets,” says Matthew Wildman, Pet Care Issues Manager of the Humane Society of the United States. “Specifically, owners of large dogs with heavier weights.”

That’s where one downtown Madison apartment stands out.

The Human Society commended 306 West for not having breed or weight limitations in place, and welcoming all dogs. While we do have a two-animal limit in place, it’s certainly negotiable. Ultimately, we would hate to see an animal displaced, or an individual seeking a new home be turned away simply for opening their heart up to animals. In our experience many prior homeowners obtained pets not expecting to transition into a rental situation, and may now find themselves with very few options if they have large pets or certain breeds.

The Humane Society was particularly interested in the impact that 306 West’s pet-friendly policies have had on the community. We’re proud to report that zero incidents have been reported to management thus far, and we do have larger breeds and breeds on the restricted list held by many properties. 306 West strives to establish a community where all pet-owners feel comfortable and welcome.

Notwithstanding the pet-friendly policies, 306 West has implemented several other measures to make pets feel at home with their owners. In walking distance of the downtown Madison apartment are Brittingham Dog Park and Quann Dog Park. After playing at the dog parks, pets are welcome to get clean in the heated, indoors pet-washing station. Multiple elevators are on the property, and they’re roomy enough for large dogs to easily navigate the walk from the apartment to the outdoors. Directly across the street from 306 West is a large, grassy area for dogs to take care of business (if you know what we mean). The downtown Madison apartments have also partnered with local groomers and dog-walkers to offer on-site services to pets in need.

Currently, a doggy meet-and-greet is being planned for residents of 306 West. The event will occur in the private courtyard and will give neighboring pets a chance to meet each other, and for their owners to meet local vendors such as dog-walkers, groomers, and boarding facilities. Stay tuned for more details!

To have your pet featured as a resident of 306 West, send pictures of your pet and a brief bio to Kendra Bishop at kbishop@alexandercompany.com.