Do you see your pet as a family member?

A new petition is calling on the government to classify pets as family members in court cases.

Under the current laws, pets are classed as “chattels”, which is the legal term for personal possessions or property.

However, this can cause issues over ownership, especially during divorce/separation cases or will disputes.

Legal disputes can take a year or longer, meaning that many owners will be separated from their pets during that time.

There is also no compensation for owners if the pet is stolen and sold, or killed due to negligence, at any time during legal proceedings.

Man’s best friend

Pet custody cases have risen by 37.5% between 31st March 2024 and 31st March 2025.

This is mainly due to the emotional attachment many people build with their pets, especially if they have owned them for many years.

A survey from animal charity, Dogs Trust, revealed that 99% of dog owners said their dogs are “family.”

Pet care brand, Purina, also found that 73% of people view their pets as “one of their best friends”.

Jack Sullivan, a solicitor from Cooper & Co Solicitors, said:

“Most [owners] see their pets as family, yet Courts are not required to consider their welfare or emotional bonds.

“For millions of people, pets are not property – they’re comfort, companionship, and unconditional love.

“It is high time the law caught up with public sentiment.”

Natalie Sutherland, Partner at Burgess Mee Family Law said:

“Many jurisdictions, such as Spain, France, Colombia, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and various states/provinces in the US and Canada have updated their laws to ensure that pets are protected during divorce and separation.

“As family law practitioners, we know how difficult divorce and separation proceedings can be when the parties are arguing about who gets the pet.

“Not only does the decision impact on the animal’s welfare, but sometimes, arguing over pets can be used as a tactic to perpetuate abuse as a form of control.”

Claws-and-effect

If you wish to support the campaign, follow the Working Group on Pets on Divorce and Separation on LinkedIn, and/or sign the petition here.

You can also write to your MP expressing your support for law reform.

Do you have a legal matter that you need help with? Contact Kingswell Watts on 01924 461236, or email enquiries@kingswellwatts.co.uk

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