Families Face Housing Rules That Can Separate Them From Pets
Matthew Russell
A safe home should not come at the cost of a beloved dog or cat. But for families in public housing, blanket pet restrictions can still create that impossible choice.
The Pets Belong With Families Act would help change that. The ASPCA says the bill, introduced by Sen. Adam Schiff and Reps. Mike Lawler and Jason Crow, would prohibit public housing agencies from restricting pets based on breed, size, or weight. It would also place reasonable limits on pet deposits.
For families already struggling with housing costs, that matters. A pet deposit or breed ban can be the difference between keeping a pet and surrendering one.
Housing rules should not force pets into shelters.
The Bill Focuses On Fairness
Sen. Schiff’s office says the bill would remove overly broad restrictions against dogs based on breed, size, or weight. Rep. Lawler’s office says it would amend the Housing Act of 1937 while still allowing discretion for individual animals considered dangerous.
That is the right distinction. Safety rules should focus on actual behavior. They should not assume a dog is unsafe because of breed label, weight, or appearance.
Rep. Crow’s office said the bill would help families keep pets in public housing and prevent unnecessary financial penalties tied to pet ownership.
Dogs and cats provide comfort and routine.
Pet-Inclusive Housing Saves Animals
GovInfo lists H.R. 8378 as the Pets Belong With Families Act, introduced in April 2026 and referred to the House Financial Services Committee. Best Friends Animal Society is also urging support, noting that breed restrictions can force responsible owners to part with pets.
When a family is forced to surrender a loved animal because of housing rules, everyone loses. The family loses companionship. The pet loses home and stability. Shelters take on another animal who may never have needed to enter the system.
Congress can prevent that harm. Public housing can protect safety without separating families from pets who have done nothing wrong.
Sign the petition to urge Congress to pass the Pets Belong With Families Act and keep beloved dogs and cats with the people who love them.
