Dogs Trust // Renter's Rights

Dogs Trust has spent decades advocating for the welfare of dogs across Ireland and the UK, but one issue continues to surface again and again. Too many people are forced to surrender beloved pets because they cannot find rental accommodation that allows animals. This campaign film set out to spotlight that reality and support Dogs Trust’s call for more pet friendly housing. With a studio full of dog lovers behind the scenes, it was a project that resonated deeply with the team.

Directed by Saoirse Johnston Gaffey, the creative approach focused on honesty and emotional clarity rather than overt messaging. The film places the audience directly inside a familiar dilemma faced by countless pet owners. By keeping the storytelling grounded and intimate, the message lands with quiet force. It asks viewers to consider the bond between people and their dogs, and how fragile that bond can become when housing policies stand in the way.

Working with animals always brings a degree of unpredictability, but it also brings authenticity that cannot be manufactured. Production was built around patience and adaptability, allowing the dogs to behave naturally while still capturing the emotional beats of the story. The goal was to create moments that felt real rather than staged, giving the film the warmth and sincerity the subject deserved.

In post production the focus shifted to restraint. The edit allowed performances and small gestures to carry the weight of the message. Subtle sound design and a carefully balanced grade helped create a tone that felt both gentle and urgent. Every choice supported the central idea without distracting from it.

The finished film forms part of Dogs Trust’s wider push to change the conversation around renting with pets. At its core, it is a reminder that housing policy is not just about property. For many people, it is also about family.