Michelson Found Animals and the Pet-Inclusive Housing Initiative firmly believe that people and pets belong together. Restrictive housing policies shouldn’t stand in the way of families finding a loving home for their furry companions. That’s why we’re thrilled to celebrate the incredible individuals and organizations making a significant difference in this crucial area—the 2024 Pets & Housing Awards winners!
On June 12th, we hosted a live webinar to announce this year’s award winners. It was truly inspiring to see the dedication and creativity these champions bring to creating welcoming communities for pets and their human families.
This year’s winners and their incredible achievements included:
Award: Most Creative Pet-Centered Event
This property held the most unique pet event that created participation and engagement among residents and their pets.
Winner: Sequoia Equities
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Award: Most Impactful Adoption or Foster Event or Program
This property or company sponsored an adoption program or event that assisted local shelter(s) in finding furever homes among residents.
Winner: Dane Park Communities
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Award: Outstanding Pet Citizen
This pet resident made a difference in their community, did something really remarkable, or simply added joy or calm with their presence.
Winner: The Management Group
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Award: Most Innovative Pet Amenity or Amenity Group
This property or company offers a cool new pet amenity that has residents buzzing and has impacted resident satisfaction, retention, and the ability to attract new residents.
Winner: Dane Park Communities
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Award: Most Innovative Pet Marketing Campaign
This property or company has embraced pets as a key marketing strategy to attract and keep residents.
Winner: Sequoia Equities
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Award: The Vanguard Award
The Vanguard Award recognizes sustained excellence in the area of pet-inclusive rental housing for a company that owns or manages at least five properties.
Winner: The Management Group
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Award: Best Leap Forward (<10,000 units)
This company has recently eased or lifted pet restrictions, or has begun to implement a plan for becoming more pet-inclusive.
Winner: Rainier Properties
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Award: Best Leap Forward (10,000+ units)
This company has recently eased or lifted pet restrictions, or has begun to implement a plan for becoming more pet-inclusive.
Winner: Sequoia Equities
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Award: Most Pet-Inclusive Property
This property has earned the highest Pet-Inclusive Score – based on pet restrictions, fees, and amenities – via the Pet-Inclusive Scorecard.
Winner: Lilac Pointe, MGMT Residential
Why Pet-Inclusive Housing Matters
For many families, pets are cherished members of the family. Studies have shown that pets can provide numerous benefits, including reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and increasing social interaction. However, restrictive housing policies can force families to make a difficult choice – their pet or their home.
By creating pet-inclusive communities, we can ensure that families don’t have to give up their beloved companions and that pets find loving homes. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Our Work Continues!
The fight for pet-inclusive housing is far from over. We will continue to work alongside incredible partners and our dedicated award winners to break down barriers and create a world where all pet owners can find a welcoming place to call home.
Congratulations again to all of our winners! Your commitment to creating pet-inclusive communities is truly inspiring.
Stay tuned for more blog posts where we’ll highlight some of the innovative programs and initiatives implemented by our award winners!