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David’​s Blog

Don’t Forget the Pets

5/1/2021

5 Comments

 
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This is our dog, (Sir) Winston and our cat, Thundercloud. They are camped out in my home office. Our human children are grown and off on their own, so these guys are the “kids” in the house. And we love them very much (almost as much as our real children).  

After all, who doesn’t love their pets?

For years, it seems that the legal system has viewed pets as property, while, in reality, our pets are much more to most of us than possessions.

This is why any divorce mediation I conduct includes a discussion about pets. For years, it seems that the legal system has viewed pets as property, while, in reality, our pets are much more to most of us than possessions. They live and breathe; they require love and attention; they require food, shelter and trips to the veterinarian. Sounds like children to me, except for the clothing and perhaps the attitude (although Thundercloud has more attitude than our kids ever did, combined).

Any conversation about pets is likely to include these questions:
  1. What is the plan for daily care (especially important for dogs)? 
  2. What is the plan for where they will live? Will they move between homes, and if so, on what kind of schedule? 
  3. What is the plan for expenses, especially veterinarian bills?

In some states, like Illinois, the ownership of and responsibility for a pet who was adopted or acquired during the marriage can be decided by a court, awarded either solely to one spouse or jointly to both. In making these decisions, the well being of the pet is considered.

Because pets matter, and because they deserve thoughtful planning just like all the other aspects of divorce, mediation creates a neutral setting where these decisions can be discussed, taking into account the needs of the spouses and the needs of the pets.
5 Comments
Weareseos link
12/8/2021 03:18:18 am

Thank you for sharing your great post!

Reply
Hot Water Heaters link
12/10/2021 11:11:26 am

I would say that becoming pet-friendly and accepting pets in all our housing programs, especially the emergency domestic violence shelter, gives the message to victims that we care not just about them, but for all who they consider their family,

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Harry Coates link
12/12/2021 02:33:58 am

This is why any divorce mediation I conduct includes a discussion about pets. For years, it seems that the legal system has viewed pets as property, while, in reality, our pets are much more to most of us than possessions. Thanks for the nice post!

Reply
Our site link
12/14/2021 10:44:19 am

We appreciate all that was done to make Safe Futures more pet-friendly, as do victims. I would say that becoming pet-friendly and accepting pets in all our housing programs,

Reply
spoodle australia link
10/7/2022 05:30:02 pm

Pet supplies are ack. During a crisis, your pet will need food and water just like your family does. Keep your pet's meds, leash, vet contact information, a first aid kit, food and water bowls, a can opener, and a litter box in your emergency preparedness bag (if appropriate). Keep in mind that non-furry pets could require different goods during a crisis, such as cages, perches, or heated pads. Additionally, after you've decided where your family may flee to in case of an emergency, have the phone numbers of nearby veterinarians handy in case you can't reach yours.

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David Louis, MPA, CDFA®   •   Louis Mediation Services   •   Chicago
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3838 N Ravenswood Ave., Suite 257, Chicago, IL  60613
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(773) 633-0256
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  • Home
  • About David
    • Approach & Background
    • David Louis' Personal Story
    • Professional Experience
    • Training Log
  • Benefits of Mediation
  • How Mediation Works
    • Divorce Mediation Process and Outcomes
    • Financial Analysis
    • Parenting Plan
  • Resources
  • Blog
  • Contact