Here on the apegada blog, we always talk about pets as part of the family . So, the following question may arise: who gets the pet at the end of a relationship ? Of course, no one wants to think about this, but it is something that happens and has even become an important part of the divorce process for some couples. Let’s talk about it?
You and your partner decide to adopt a pet or take your pets with you when you move in together or after marriage. It is common for a great connection to occur and the pet becomes not just one’s, but both’s. Many even treat cats and dogs as children, placing themselves in the position of the animal’s father or mother. An adoption ends up forming a great bond of love. When the relationship does not work out, even if it is by mutual agreement, dividing the assets and furniture may be easy, but the pets are not.
Who gets the pet at the end of a relationship?
Ideally, the couple should talk rationally about the matter to reach an amicable agreement, without needing the help of a judge to put an end to the dispute. Therefore, you can sit down and answer the following questions:
– Who is the animal more accustomed to?
– Who has more time to care for it?
– Where will it have more space to live well?
– Who has more financial means?
– Who dedicates more time to the pet?
– Can custody be shared? And the costs too?
If you have more than one animal, the situation can get a little complicated. But think about whether it is possible to separate them or if it is better to keep them together. Maybe even give the pet a period of adaptation to see how it reacts away from the other owner or its “pet sibling”.
But what if the situation is not friendly?
Who gets the pet at the end of a relationship where neither of the parties wants to give in? Well, things get complicated! It’s not uncommon, but it can be a bit exhausting. It’s common to see court decisions about pet custody in the news. If you’re already in the process of getting a divorce with lawyers, you can spend a few hours discussing the issue, or seek help to get custody of your pet.
In this case, a judge takes into account that an animal is not a thing or property, but rather a being that needs care. The logic is very similar to dividing custody of a child. The decision is usually made based on the financial conditions of the guardians and thinking about the well-being of the animal. For example, who has more time, money and attachment to the pet. It’s also very common to leave the trial with a shared custody agreement.
When leaving a relationship, it’s essential to think about what’s best for you. Likewise, think rationally about what’s best for your cat or dog.