During the Covid-19 pandemic, Britain’s love for furry friends has escalated to unprecedented levels, with the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association (PFMA) stating that a total of 3.2 million households in the UK have acquired a pet since the start of the pandemic.
One in four divorces already involves a dispute over a pet. Whilst these disputes can end up in court, they are for the most part settled between the parties themselves and any instructed solicitors. Whilst many pet owners consider their pet to be part of the family, in the eyes of the law, a pet is an item of personal property. If a court is required to decide who should retain a pet, consideration will be given to who paid for the pet, who the pet is registered to and who has paid to maintain the pet.
The arrangement that will work best for a separating couple and their pet is inevitably best discussed and agreed upon between them but where further advice and guidance is required about this or the breakdown of a relationship or marriage generally, please contact Fran Hipperson on frances.hipperson@bpcollins.co.uk for a confidential chat.