Who Gets Custody of Our Pet?
You could not imagine your relationship ending when you and your partner first chose to get a pet together. Life is turning out differently, though, and what happens to your beloved pet is a point of conflict. While you may view your pet as your baby, the laws concerning animal custody are quite different than child custody.
Because your pet is property in the eyes of the law in Pennsylvania, you cannot go through family court to resolve the issue unless the pet is part of a divorce. Depending on your situation, it may not be necessary to take the issue all the way to a judge, as an attorney can typically provide enough information to help you and your ex-partner determine ownership on your own. Glenn-Dinwoodie Law is one of the leading practitioners of animal law in Pennsylvania. We help pet owners determine which partner has legal ownership of the pet and how to move forward in shared custody arrangements.
Who is the Pet’s Legal Owner?
Legal ownership is typically determined by documentation, possession, and any agreements between the parties. A court could review veterinary records, bills of sale, adoption contracts, leasing agreements, and/or microchipping records to determine which party has the rights to the pet moving forward. Possession of the pet also matters. Even if your name is on most of the pet’s records, if you move out of the home and leave the pet with your ex-partner, he or she may have an ownership claim. Since this may impact the timing or location of your move, it’s important to consider the long-term consequences before you make a decision, especially if you do not have a written contract between you and your partner
Is Shared Pet Custody Possible?
Consider a shared custody contract for your pet and consult with an attorney to discuss the details Depending on your needs, the agreement could assign responsibility for vet schedules and costs, dietary needs, exercise schedules, and any other need of your individual pet. Finally, the contract should address issues of breach as well as an exit clause if one party decides they no longer wish to share responsibilities for the pet.
While determining how to split time with your beloved dog, cat, or other pet during a breakup can be a very emotional experience, it is possible to reach a reasonable agreement that allows you and your ex-partner to move on with your lives in a fair arrangement. If you are considering ending a relationship that involves a beloved pet, contact us to learn more about your options. Your 30-minute consultation is free, and it will prepare you with a great deal of information before you take your next steps. With offices in both Bucks County and Montgomery Count, Glenn-Dinwoodie Law works with clients in Doylestown, Ambler, Norristown, Plymouth Meeting, and surrounding areas.