Pets caught up in marital splits | Bay of Plenty Times

Pets will continue to be the focus of relationship dissolution because they are members of the family.  Although the law treats them as property, any true pet lover will confirm they are so much more - priceless.  

Pets caught up in marital splits | Bay of Plenty Times

If you, a family member or friend needs assistance in the resolution of a pet related dispute, try mediation, not litigation.  

Kristen Stewart seeks joint custody of her and Robert Pattinson's dogs - Times LIVE

The best way to resolve a custody dispute over pets is using pet centered mediation.  Read on for more information...

Kristen Stewart seeks joint custody of her and Robert Pattinson's dogs - Times LIVE

Pet Custody Cases Are On The Rise in America | PetZet

Here's another article outlining the rise of controversy surrounding our pets.  Mediation is the best way to resolve pet related issues.  You can think out of the box and craft solutions that work for you and your pet.  

Pet Custody Cases Are On The Rise in America | PetZet

Texas Court Reaffirms Pets as Property

 This ruling is a blow to animal lovers everywhere who know their pets are more than property - they are family.  All anyone seems to be concerned about here is the potential for future additional litigation.  And....

Texas Court Reaffirms Pets as Property

How to Prevent or Handle a Pet Custody Dispute | NakedLaw by Avvo

Here are some helpful tips on preventing or dealing with a pet custody dispute.  Don't think this can't happen to you - it has happened to many people I know.  They innocently give a pet as a gift and then when the relationship ends, they want the pet back.  Doesn't always work that way.  Mediation can be a solution to craft a solution that works for your pet...and you!

How to Prevent or Handle a Pet Custody Dispute | NakedLaw by Avvo

Wrangling over Delaware pooch goes through 3 courts

Here's a case that got out of hand.  The case fighting over the dog lasted longer than this couple's relationship.  Perhaps much of the time, energy, expense and heartache could have been avoided with a mediated resolution rather than dragging this dog through the court?  

Wrangling over Delaware pooch goes through 3 courts

How to provide for pets in your will - a news story by Cynthia Smoot Fox Tampa Bay

Thanks to Cynthia Smoot of Fox Tampa Bay for her great story on planning for your pets!  Thanks to friends Don and Dana Ibold for sharing their story.  Thank you to every pet owner who cares enough to plan for their pets.  This story features me ( Peggy Hoyt) and my furry faced kid family. 

If you haven't made plans for your pets, the time is now.  It can be as simple or complex as you desire.  Leave your pet to a trusted family member or friend.  Create a pet trust to ensure your pets have care for the rest of their lives.  Consider a perpetual care facility if you don't have trusted family or friends.  There are lots of options.  Our pets are like our children, they deserve to have a secure future. 


How to provide for pets in your will