No Barking: Getting Your Dog Past the Co-op Board

JULY 15, 2010

Even if you get the green light, your building’s co-op board may have a bone to pick with your dog.

Everyone’s heard how hard it can be to get co-op board approval. You’ve got letters from bosses, second grade teachers and banks, your fingerprints and you still fear the dreaded down-vote. A recent Brick Underground post warns that some old-school co-ops may also require an interview with potential pooches. Elena Gretch—owner of pet services agency It’s a Dog’s Life—regularly preps pets for co-op board interviews. She determines potential issues at the building in question and then she spends several sessions ($175/hour) on a one-on-one “cram course” in co-op pet etiquette. Andrea Arden Dog Training offers similar training in group sessions at $350 for six sessions.

A few more tips: Certification from the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Program is evidence that your pet is well-trained and socialized. Experts say it’s a good idea to prepare a mini board package: an “about me” page with the dog’s photo, personality, measurements and pedigree, plus letters of recommendation from professionals who deal with your dog on a regular. A “doorbell test” to show the board what happens when someone rings a doorbell can allay fears about barking. And, of course, making sure Fido or Fifi is well-groomed and sweet-smelling can make a big difference.

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No Barking: Getting Your Dog Past the Co-op Board

JULY 15, 2010

ALSO IN NEW YORK CITY INSIDER

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