When parents divorce, deciding who keeps the family pet can be nearly as emotional as dividing time with the children. For most American families, pets are more than property—they’re companions, protectors and part of a family’s broader daily routine. In some cases, it may make sense for the family pet to follow the same parenting schedule as the kids, moving between homes just like the children do.
While most state laws treat pets as property in a divorce, some family courts are starting to consider what is in the best interest of the pet and the children alike. And if co-parents opt to integrate this kind of arrangement into their parenting plan without judicial intervention, all the better.
Making it work
If a pet is especially bonded with the children in a family, it may cause less stress for everyone if the animal follows the same custody schedule. For kids, having a pet around can provide comfort and stability during a time of big changes.
With that said, including pets in a parenting plan takes planning and cooperation. Parents should consider the pet’s needs, such as feeding, medical care and how well the animal handles travel or time apart from either household. It’s also important to talk about who will pay for vet bills, food and other pet-related expenses, especially if the pet is moving back and forth regularly. Setting these expectations up formally with each parent’s legal team is wise, as doing so will make them enforceable and help to minimize future excuses for related conflict.
Parents may choose to add a pet-sharing arrangement into their custody or separation agreement. This can outline when and how the pet travels between homes, who is responsible for care and what happens if one parent moves or is no longer able to keep the animal. Clear communication can help to reinforce agreed-upon concerns and better ensure that the pet in question stays healthy and cared for.
