Hawai'i is no different. The good news is that the Hawaiian Humane Society on O'ahu is spearheading advocacy and education efforts targeting community associations, landlords, property managers and buildings to bring about more policies where pets are possible.

Concerned about the number of pet owners struggling to find places to live, local attorney Mary A. Wilkowski advertises her several rental units as pet-friendly. "We pride ourselves on valuing 'ohana, and yet we know that landlords are rejecting people with well-behaved pets in droves. Pets are important members of our families."

Wilkowski's rentals attract hundreds of applicants. "Pets are like children. Some parents are responsible and others are irresponsible," says Wilkowski. "In my experience, pet owners make terrific tenants. They take care of their animals, and of my units."

"The rental market is as tight as ever," says real estate woman Barbara Erskine of East Oahu Realty, who specializes in pet-friendly housing. "Landlords can charge high rents and be as discriminating as they want. It's put pet owners in the tough position of choosing between having a place to live and sacrificing their furry family members."

Start your search at least six weeks before your lease expires, advises Cynthia Keolanui, humane society advocate for pets in housing. Pet owners should contact real estate agents, rental agents and resident managers who own pets themselves.

Talk to friends, neighbors and local veterinarians for pet-friendly rentals.

Pet owners can also put together a pet portfolio that includes: a letter of reference from your current landlord and a letter from your veterinarian affirming that your pet's health care is current, including vaccinations. Provide any proof of licensing, spay or neuter status, dog training school diplomas, and photos of your pet in your current home.

Once a rental has been secured, it's also wise to consider adding a pet addendum to rental agreements, which protects you, the landlord, the rental unit and your pets.