Search Results: okay to say no

I got this well-paying job at another city. and this is what happened:

• I was assured that I will be given an apartment that meets my needs (filled a form, etc.), was told along with others that everything will be okay.
• Suddenly we were asked to join earlier than the contract date to attend an orientation program.
• Radio silence for more than a week leading to the presumed date. I tried to reach them but mostly got no clear answer.
• They now say we can stay for some time at a facility, but we cannot bring our pets. I had already explained to them, three months earlier, that I have a pet I am responsible for. They had assured me then.
• BUT NOW THEY ARE BEING INSENIBLE to my request, asking me simply 'to join' and leave the pet somewhere until I am given an apartment. Nobody knows when this will happen, and I do not trust them to be honest. Also, the contract does not start now: they want me to join way earlier than my contract date, and they mentioned nothing about paying us or for our food.
• I just stood my ground and informed them that I cannot join until I am given suitable housing as I was promised.
• My family would call me crazy for not going as they don't really like pets and they won't understand how I am attached to mine. It is my whole world.
• Is it reasonable on their part not to fulfil their promise, and call us way earlier with no salary or food paid, ignore our requests by not allowing pets and simply ask us to come?
• Now I realize they might end my contract even before it actually starts. But I believe this is unprofessional and unfair. What would you do in this case?
• Thanks!