A petnup is a clause within a prenuptial agreement that establishes the custody and care of pets in the event of a breakup or divorce. It helps couples make clear decisions about their furry family members while they are still on good terms, minimizing future conflicts. Given that one in twenty couples with pets already has a petnup in place, it is becoming an increasingly popular trend.
Establish Pet Joint Custody
For many couples, pets are like children, and deciding what happens to them in the event of a breakup can be heart-wrenching. A petnup allows couples to agree on terms for joint custody while they are still in a harmonious relationship.
- Joint custody agreements ensure that the pet continues to receive love and care from both “fur parents” regardless of how strained the relationship becomes later on.
- Since the terms are agreed upon in advance, a petnup helps eliminate contention and emotional disputes in court.
Keep Your Pet Happiest
Sometimes, pets naturally gravitate toward one person in the relationship. A petnup can specify that the pet stays with the person who provides most of its care, ensuring the pet’s happiness.
- If you are the one who feeds, walks, and takes your pet to the vet, you may want to become the designated primary caretaker in your petnup.
- Consulting a professional to mediate and write up the petnup can help if you and your partner struggle to make a decision.
Custody of Pets for the Kids
If you have children, they probably have formed a special relationship with their furry sibling over time. Therefore, it is often in the best interest of the children to keep them with their four-legged brother or sister.
You can account for this in a petnup when you decide who keeps the dog in the event you and your partner break up. Most parents want to spare their kids as much grief as possible when it comes to divorce, so consider a petnup that states that the dog stays with your children. If the kids spend one month at one parent’s home and the next month at the other’s, the dog goes too.
Why a Petnup is the Best Choice
Having a petnup in place ensures that decisions about your beloved pet are made while you and your partner are happy and agreeable. By proactively planning for your pet’s future, you can avoid painful disputes later on and ensure that your furry friend receives the care they deserve.
Get Help Drafting Your Petnup
If you are getting married and have a pet, it’s time to consider a petnup. Contact us today to discuss whether a petnup is the right choice for you and what should be included to protect your furry family member.
