Recent figures produced show that about 10% of couples who own a dog together but then break up agree on shared custody. TV star Anthony McPartlin and his ex-wife Lisa Armstrong fought for custody of their Labrador for three years after their divorce was finalised. Mrs Armstrong sought custody when Mr McPartlin apparently remarried.
The concept of a "Pet-Nup" has now entered legal language. This sets out the plans for an animal if a couple do break up. The difficulty remains that although couples do split up and have a divorce very few of them enter into a Pre-Nuptial Agreement let alone a Pet-Nuptial Agreement.
Whilst it seems rather unusual about 20% of people contacted in a recent survey said they tried to let the dog have the final say by letting it live with whichever one of the couple it appeared it wanted to be with most. Canine behaviourists have pointed to hyper attachment to one particular owner which can make the situation of joint ownership stressful.
The difficulty is that the Family Court has no particular powers to deal with animals. They are treated like any other asset which ignores the emotional attachment that a couple can have to their pet who has become an integral part of the family. This can lead to very acrimonious split ups which are made even worse because of arguments over animals. Sadly there is no easy solution to this other than to try to ensure that all aspects of a divorce are dealt with as amicably as possible.
At Clapham & Collinge, our specialist Family Department are able to provide advice and assistance specific to your individual circumstances. To book an appointment, please contact our dedicated Client Relations Team on 01603 693510 or by using the 'Make an Enquiry' form on our website.
Face to face appointments are available at our Norwich, North Walsham or Sheringham offices.
