¦ Although many apartment listings and lease agreements specify “no pets,” a clause like this is illegal under the Ontario Residential Tenancies Act. Your landlord can’t make you get rid of your pet or evict you because of it unless the animal is dangerous, triggers allergic reactions or causes other problems.

¦ Boost your critter karma by choosing to adopt from a shelter or rescue organization. Websites like www.petfinder.com make it easy to browse through adoptable pets, read reports from current foster parents and find the right furry, scaly or feathered friend for your home.

¦ The City of Toronto currently offers 32 off-leash areas in city parks, with the full list available online at www.toronto.ca/parks/dogsoffleash_list.htm. Even if you don’t have a dog, a sunny afternoon spent in the sprawling leash-free zones of Trinity-Bellwoods Park or High Park will provide a good dose of puppy therapy.

¦ Having a pet is good for your mental health. Animals provide companionship, helping stave off depression and can even lower your blood pressure. Dogs are an especially good choice for those of us who need an excuse to get outside and get active.

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