When folks divorce, what happens to the pets? From Fox 12 TV in Oregon:
When Jo Shoesmith and Martin Stephens got divorced, the most difficult decision they had to make was who gets custody of the "children" only their children all have four legs and beautiful fur coats!Pausing to consider what was best for their pets, they agreed to share custody."We both felt very strongly that they should spend time with both of us," said Jo.
Pet custody cases like Martin and Jo's are exploding in number --- but not all of them are as amicable.
The Animal Legal Defense Fund has filed briefs in several long and bitter divorces. Dozens of law schools including Harvard and Yale have classes on the subject.
Doctor Paul Waldau teaches one at Tufts University Veterinary School.
"The hottest topic isn't the best interest of the husband or the wife or the children," explained Dr. Waldau. "The hottest topic is actually the best interest of the dog or cat."...
..."Unfortunately, the legal system treats dogs and cats like, like it treats computers or tables or chairs," said Dr. Waldau.
In other words, pets are considered property although several states are now looking at legislation that would recognize their special place in the family.
To avoid an ugly battle some couples are even signing pre-nuptial animal agreements downloaded from internet websites.