Legal Question in Family Law in Florida

Re: Pet custody

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Florida considers pets to be chattels or personal property. If your ex boyfriend owns the dog, it is his to do with as he pleases. He can choose to allow you to visit with the dog - or not as he sees fit.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.

Re: Pet custody

Pets are considered property and are dealt with as such. Because the dog belongs to your ex, he can dictate what happens concerning it. Even in an actual divorce, there is no custody or visitation issue with pets. The Supreme Court has dealt with the issue and has decided that the system was already overwhelmed with custody of children and that treating animals like children would create chaos. Thus, there is no authority for you to request visitation of the dog. You can try asking your ex for cooperation or even asking that he let you have the dog but the courts will not grant visitation rights.