Many people find it nice to have pets. A dog or cat becomes like a dear member of the family. Having pets with us is allowed, but keep in mind that some people may be afraid of them. Do not let them run loose on staircases, in yards or in plantings. Here are some points that you need to consider if you have, or are thinking of getting, a pet.

Dogs

The dog should be on a leash and as far as possible it should not be walked within the residential area. You also need to remember to pick up after your dog. It must not bark or howl so that it disturbs the residents. Barking is a normal instinct for a dog that feels a little insecure and scared, which it may do when it is alone in the apartment. To be on the safe side, you should talk to your neighbors so that you know that your dog does not usually disturb.

Cats

Cats are a little more stubborn than dogs and can be more difficult to control. From previously being a farm animal where they were allowed to roam freely, most cats are now kept as pets. However, the tradition of letting cats run free was carried over when cats became "city animals". As a loose animal, they can still be useful as rat catchers etc. and have a good life from an animal welfare point of view. On the other hand, loose cats cause a number of problems in urban environments that you as a cat owner are responsible for.
• Cats prefer to defecate in sandboxes and flower beds, rather than in your own yard.
• Cats like to warm themselves on the hoods of cars, with the risk of damaging the paintwork.
• Cats mark their territory. Cat urine, especially from male cats, has a strong smell and is almost impossible to remove from entrances, strollers, garden furniture etc.
• Cats are particularly troublesome for allergy sufferers. Problems arise when cats sneak in through open windows and doors, sleep in strollers and on carpets and cushions on balconies and patios.

Some advice for those of you who have cats:

• Make sure your cat has a clean litter box to relieve itself in, inside or on your own patio.
• Have your male cat neutered or your female cat sterilized to reduce the risk of marking territory and running, especially during mating season.
• Keep an eye on your cat so that it does not cause inconvenience to your neighbors and allergy sufferers. As a cat owner, you are liable for any damage caused by the cat.
• Put a collar on your cat with your name and phone number, so that anyone who might be disturbed knows who the owner is and can contact you.
• Consider whether you live in an area where it is appropriate to let the cat loose outside at all! It can both get into trouble and cause unpleasant situations. An unmarked cat can be captured and handed over to the police as a living lost property and, in the worst case, euthanized.
• Never flush old cat litter down the toilet. This only means that there will be a guaranteed blockage, a lot of unnecessary work and extra costs for you. Instead, throw the litter in the garbage (residual waste), but make sure that it is well packed in a tightly sealed bag.

Birds

Do not feed birds near the residential area. Unfortunately, birds litter a lot, both with their feces and with dropped food. The food can in turn attract rats and mice to the area. There is also a certain risk that diseases, such as salmonella, can be spread from the birds. In addition, seagulls can be attracted there and they can make a lot of noise.

Unusual pets

If you have or want to get a more unusual pet, such as snakes, spiders, etc., you should contact the Environmental Unit at Ljusdal Municipality and ask if there are any special rules for them. Remember that many people are afraid of such animals, so keep them indoors. Put safety nets on vents and wells. Then you will not risk your pet escaping from the apartment.

Allergies

Many people are allergic to pets. Show consideration, for example by keeping common areas clean of animal hair. Also remember that hair from furry animals can get stuck in the washing machine and dryer. If you have pets, you must therefore clean up after yourself extra when you are finished in the laundry room.

Unwanted animals

There are also animals that we DO NOT want in our apartments and residential areas. Pests such as rats, mice, insects are best kept at bay by keeping it clean and tidy. Do not feed birds from the balcony, food scraps can attract rats and mice. If you get any kind of pest in the apartment (such as mealybugs or ants), you must immediately notify us at AB Ljusdalshem on tel. 0651-686 60. We cooperate with Anticimex in these matters and this service is free of charge for you as a tenant.