End blanket pet bans
Replace outdated “no pets” and “small dogs only” rules with fair, compassionate policies.
A BarkingMad initiative
Not Without My Dog.
Every day, South African families are forced to choose between the dogs they love and the roof over their heads. We believe compassionate housing rules can keep both.
Home means together.Pet-inclusive housing keeps loved dogs out of shelters.
Downsizing should never mean heartbreak.
Why this matters
Housing rules are filling shelters
Rising living costs are pushing more families into estates, complexes and rental homes. Too many are met with blanket rules that exclude pets entirely or judge dogs only by their size.
The result is devastating: healthy, loving animals are surrendered, shelters are stretched beyond capacity, and families lose companions who are part of their everyday lives.
“A dog’s temperament—not their size—is what matters in a community.”
A fairer way forward
Three changes that keep dogs home
We are calling on housing estates, property developers, landlords and homeowner associations to make pet decisions with care—not assumptions.
Assess every dog fairly
Temperament and responsible ownership matter more than a dog’s breed, size or appearance.
Keep families together
A move to safer or more affordable housing should never mean giving up a beloved family member.
Add your voice
Help make housing more pet-inclusive
Change starts with real stories, better information and people willing to speak up.