Those who go through divorces in Pennsylvania are often surprised that the beloved family dog is considered personal property, the same as a piece of furniture or a painting: one spouse gets the dog, the other does not. There is no “pet custody” in Pennsylvania and family court judges do not have the ability to issue orders requiring the parties to share time with pets. That, however, may all change.

On May 8, Pennsylvania House Bill 1432 was introduced by state Rep. Anita Kulick of Allegheny County. If made into law, it would amend certain sections of Title 23 and, upon the request of a divorcing spouse, require a judge to rule on who would get custody of the family pet.

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