08/26/2026
Happy National Dog Day! 🐾
To most people, dogs aren't just pets - they’re family. But did you know that under older laws, animals were treated purely like inanimate property (no different than a couch or TV) during a divorce?
Thankfully, California updated the law to reflect how much our pets mean to us!
Under California Family Code §2605, judges have the authority to assign sole or joint ownership of a pet based on the care and well-being of the animal.
- What does the court look at when determining "care"?
- Who handles primary feeding, walking, and daily routines?
- Whose name is on the vet records, microchip, and license?
- Who pays for food, medical bills, and grooming?
- The overall safety and protected shelter of the animal.
Courts can even issue temporary care orders while the divorce process is ongoing so your pet stays safe and settled.
If you are navigating a legal separation or divorce and want to protect your relationship with your beloved pet, our team at Burgos Santoyo Smith is here to guide you through it.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this video/post does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available in this video/post are for general informational purposes only. Please consult with a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction regarding your specific legal matter.