Under New Zealand law, pets are classified as “family chattels”—meaning they are legally considered property in a breakup.
You wouldn’t be alone if you’ve incredulously exclaimed, “I don’t want half a dog,” if someone's knowledgeably told you that this means your dog is subject to the rule of equal sharing, to be technically equally “divided” on separation.
Fortunately, common sense mostly prevails. In the event of a separation where couples are unable to agree on the care of their pet, the pet’s welfare becomes a key consideration, even though they are still legally classified as property.
Who bought the dog? Who feeds the dog? Who takes the dog to the vet? These are some of the common questions that will be asked.
At Guardianz we go deeper to identify the key - often pivotal - welfare considerations, how to determine in advance who your dog should go to, and show you what factors tip the scales in your favour.