We all love our pets.
When going through a divorce, the division of items can be a stressful and daunting task – this includes the family dog. Deciding the outcome between divorce and family dog can be a difficult process for any divorcing couple to go through.
Even though many consider their pets as part of the family, they are treated as property when it comes to the legal separation of items during a divorce. While the issues surrounding finances, child custody and visitation are well documented, there is one area surrounding these battles that goes under-reported: Who gets the dog?
While some couples treat their pets as children, often requesting custody agreements, judges will usually refuse to do so because this can only cause potential headache for the judge down the road when the agreement is not adhered to.
If a couple wants joint custody of their pet, it is best not to leave this decision up to the judge because it will almost always turn out unfavorably for one party of the divorce. It is a good idea to reach a custody agreement between the couple outside of court.
Oftentimes pets will become sad or anxious over the loss of one of their owners – looking around for the missing person. Why not talk to your ex about keeping the family dog together with the children who most love her. Not only is it in your pet’s best interests, but it might be best for your children as well. Separating them might cause extra stress that isn’t good for anyone.
Even if you don’t have children, you probably don’t like the idea of losing your best buddy to your spouse during a divorce. If you cannot reach an agreement about where your dog will live after your divorce, talk to your Orange County family lawyer – Amy M. Montes. She’ll be able to help you find the answers you need to come up with a solution good for all concerned. Please call to discuss your situation, and provide all the options available to you.
