I'm Keeping the Dog! The Rise in "Pet-Nups"
Custody disputes over individual’s beloved “fur babies” has become very common in breakups that it has led to a rise in “pet-nups”. A pet-nup is a type of prenuptial agreement that describes what would happen to a couple’s pet in the event of a breakup.
Despite many pet parents considering their fur-babies to be children, in the eyes of the law pets are simply regarded as personal property. In definition personal property is things such as vehicles, jewels, money, and furniture. Therefore, having a pre-determined agreement about care and custody should the relationship turn sour is an appealing idea for couples.
Millennial's are less likely to be homeowners or have children compared to their Baby Boomer parents and are more likely to be pet owners.
A 2018 survey from TD Ameritrade found that the 1,500 millennial's it asked, 72% of them had pets, and 67% of those considered their pets to be their “fur babies,” USA Today reported. The survey also found that millennial's spend more on dogs over the course of their pet’s lifetime than they do on their own health care. Dog owners spend $1,285 a year on their pet on average, while cat owners spend $915 a year, the study revealed. Having a pet-nup in place is another way of pet parents to protect their fur babies.
With pet owners investing so much time and money on their fur babies, it is completely valid that they want a little extra security and protection in the case of a relationship turning sour. After all, dogs are a man’s best friend.
Family law litigation can be emotionally difficult and complex. Decisions made about each step of the litigation can affect you for many years. At Bains Law Firm, we have decades of experience helping our clients through the difficulty of family law matters, including parental alienation cases and can help you through the process. Contact us today at (253) 838 – 3377 or email at office@bainslawfirm.com, to talk about your case.
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