By Judy Bellack, Industry Principal, The Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative
Mark your calendars for June 4th! This year’s Pets & Housing Awards are shaping up to be the can’t-miss event for anyone passionate about pet-inclusive rental housing! Whether you’re an operator, supplier, advocate, or animal lover, we invite you to join us virtually as we honor the innovators, trailblazers, and everyday heroes working to create communities where pets—and their people—thrive.
Why the Pets & Housing Awards Matter
Launched by Michelson Found Animals Foundation’s Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative, the Pets & Housing Awards were created with a simple belief: everyone deserves the joy of a pet, no matter where they live. Rental housing is evolving, and so are the leaders behind this positive change. These awards spotlight the properties, programs, and individuals making a real difference for pets, residents, and entire communities.
We know that being “pet-friendly” isn’t enough in today’s rental landscape. Today’s renter is looking for truly pet-inclusive housing—places where pets aren’t turned away for arbitrary reasons like weight limits or breed restrictions or where pet fees have become burdensome. Communities that embrace genuine inclusivity are expanding their reach, boosting resident satisfaction, and leading the industry forward.
Meet the Award Categories
This year’s awards recognize achievements across the pet-inclusive spectrum:
The Most Pet-Inclusive Property
This award, determined using the Pet-Inclusive Scorecard, honors the property that has set a new bar for pet inclusivity. This property is minimizing restrictions and fees and maximizing pet amenities.
Most Impactful Adoption or Foster Event or Program
Recognizing a property or organization that’s made a real difference for shelter pets and local rescues, proving that when housing operators get involved, lives are changed (and sometimes even saved!).
Most Innovative Pet Amenity or Amenity Group
Spotlighting properties that go above and beyond with creative pet amenities, from dog parks and spas to agility courses and pet lounges.
Most Innovative Pet Marketing Campaign
Celebrating marketing brilliance—those attention-grabbing campaigns that connect with pet lovers and elevate the property brand.
Best Leap Forward
Awarded to the property or company that made the most significant improvement in pet-inclusiveness over the past year, showing what’s possible when commitment turns into action.
The Vanguard Award
A prestigious recognition of sustained excellence and leadership in pet-inclusive rental housing.
Pets & Housing Policy Advancement Award
Honoring individuals or groups driving real change in pet-related legislation and policy at the local, state, or national level.
Paws & Progress Nonprofit Award
Honoring a non-profit organization that is leading the charge with fresh ideas and tangible results, demonstrating how thoughtful innovation can transform housing challenges and keep pets and people together.
Making an Impact – Together
This celebration isn’t just about the winners. It’s about the collective impact of our industry—helping keep pets out of shelters, welcoming more families home, and proving that pet-friendly policies are good for both communities and the bottom line.
You’re Invited!
Join us virtually on June 4th for this one-of-a-kind celebration. Cheer on the winners, get inspired by their stories, and discover new ideas you can bring to your own properties and policies.
Whether you’re in it for the tail wags, the innovative ideas, or the business case, the Pets & Housing Awards are your front-row seat to the future of rental living.
Save the date. Invite your team. Bring your furry co-hosts. Let’s celebrate the leaders who are making rental housing better for people and pets alike!