|
Breaking up is so hard that a pet gets ignored more than anything else in the process at times. Your pet is more than just another hassle that needs to be dealt with; your pet is a loved one torn in the middle. She can be a source of comfort, a neutral topic for you and your mate to talk about to ease tension, a link to a happier time, or inspiration to get out of bed in the morning. Help her get through these hard times by involving her in the healing process.
You Get the Car, I Get the Cat
A divorce agreement should state who receives the pet or who will be responsible for find her a new home if neither party can keep her. Only contest "pet custody" if you can prove that you were the one who took care of the animal during the marriage or if you can unarguably offer the pet a better home.
The recent year of care weighs more in the court room; be prepared to show documentation or any evidence to prove your worthiness. The judge will not care who originally brought the pet into the home or paid for her. Never allow bitterness to get in the way of seeing that a pet goes to the best-suited owner.
If the divorce involves children, make every attempt to allow the child to keep the pet. Losing an animal on top of all the other losses is just too much for a child to bear. At this time, a child also needs someone to listen and be there with her.
Consider Temporary Custody
When finances prevent either parent from moving to a place that takes pets, find a family friend or relative to care for your child's pet until the animal can live with the child. Make sure everyone realizes that the arrangement is temporary, and schedule regular visits for the child to see the pet once-a-week. In the meantime, have the child devote some allowance to the animal's regular upkeep. That helps the child realize that the pet is still his.
Give Your Child a Pen-Pet
Use Fluffy to open the lines of communication with your child. Fluffy sends postcards, E-mail, small gifts, audiotapes, or videotapes. More important, a child writing back to Fluffy may open up more than she would write back to the mom or dad who moved out.
For more information, visit web sites with articles, advice, or tips for enduring a pet loss during divorce. Any information offered through sites is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure your pet, and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian, for any medical or health related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet.
|
Take 60 seconds and
Have Questions? If we can't answer your question directly we can point you in the right direction.
- Home Buying
- Selling Your Home
- Refinancing- Any Credit
- Debt Problems, Credit Rebuilding
- Prevent Foreclosure
|
