Who Gets The Dog?

As if dealing with the emotional turmoil caused by a divorce at the Lake of the Ozarks wasn't enough, divorcing couples must also face a many significant (and often challenging) decisions regarding the division of their property and assets. Determining custody of the children has consistently been one of the most difficult decisions divorcing couples must face, but recently there has been an increased interest on another custody issue: the family pet.


Who Gets The Family Pet In The Divorce?

Many people are surprised to learn that according to strict legal terms, pets are viewed as personal property and will be divided  and awarded to one of the parties in the same manner as furniture or cars. The difference is that many pets are viewed as part of the family, causing divorcing couples to be more likely to argue over who should get to keep the pet.

Who Can Look Out For The Pet's Best Interests? 

As we begin to view pets less like pieces of property and more like members of the family, many Missouri divorce attorneys are beginning to address the custody of the pet the same way they would address the custody of the children. That is, they try keep the pet's best interests in mind. 

Dogs and cats are living, breathing souls with personalities and interests. It is not uncommon for a pet to develop a stronger relationship with one particular family member over the other. Here are a few of the questions to consider when determining who should retain custody of the pet.
  • Who in the family is responsible for the pet's basic care, such as feeding, bathing, and taking them outside/scooping the litter box?
  • Who in the family does the pet spend the majority of time with?
  • Who has the financial means to support the pet?
Pets build relationships with the people who care for them. If you are generally the one caring of your pet, it will probably make sense for your furry friend to come live with you after the divorce.

Are There Children Involved?

Your children are another important factor to consider when determining who should retain custody of your family pet. Despite everyone's best intentions, divorce is difficult on children. Most experienced divorce attorneys agree that allowing the parent that is awarded custody of the children to also retain the pet, helps to lessen the impact of the divorce on the children involved.

PMCW Law - Trusted Lake of the Ozarks Divorce Attorneys

Having a dedicated attorney on your side to help you navigate the process of your divorce can make a world of difference. If you need professional, trustworthy representation during your divorce, we encourage you to set up a consultation with on of our experienced divorce lawyers in Camenton, MO.
Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising. When you need a knowledgeable attorney, we invite you to contact us to set up a consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available. We have access to interpreters.

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Location: Camdenton, MO 65020, USA

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