Pet Lovers

[Kachina624]

In Pennsylvania now pets have rights s official family members, as they should have.

However, I've warned my sister that if her cat finds out, her life may be in danger.  The dear thing learned to turn off her C- Pap machine, now the cat may want to see her name in a will.  Frankly, I'm worried.

[rms1954]

What do those rights provide them?

[Tinkrbl44]

Well, that's great.

Is it really all that different than if you adopt a small child?  You're taking them on as a dependent, and they should be able to trust and rely on you.

Same concept.

I think it's great.   

[spumoni99]

Thats awesome!  Some people really suck when it comes to their pets.  I'm surprised CA hasn't passed something like this.

My sister moved into a new house and  kitty kept hanging around, the neighbors said the previous owners just left the cat when they moved.  Disgusting!  She has adopted the kitty, she is very elderly now like 22.  Who leaves an elderly kitty to fend for themselves?  This is an affluent neighborhood, just goes to show money doesn't buy kindness thats for sure.

[Marp]

Congratulations to Pennsylvania.  It is about time every state recognized pets as family members not simply property.

On the other hand if the rights are specified my cat would be very disappointed that someone tried to put limits on her.

[elated]

If you watch the commercials for ASPCA, it is heartbreaking to see the dogs being starved and chained up with no shelter. What a heartless human being (I use that term loosely) to leave an animal in a deplorable state. I can only wish karma on those sick individuals. Too many shouldn't be allowed to adopt pets. If you can't afford to treat and care for their needs, you should walk away.

[Mz iMac]

@Kachina624   I need to see the actual law as what is currently online is extremely vague.  

From what I have "read" so far, no mention if the law includes ALL pets or is it just for dog & cats?

The law makes mention to "divorce" cases.  NOTHING else.  So do "car" & "homeowner" insurance carriers still consider pets as personal property?

Does this new law mean someone can bring their "family member pot belly pig, & yellow python" into a restaurant, casino, resorts, hotels, sport events, neighborhood pools, etc.?

[feline groovy]

@Mz iMac and others, here's some info:

The law requires judges to consider the welfare and living arrangements of companion animals during divorce proceedings, moving pets beyond their current classification as inanimate property.

The legislation also presumes that a service animal should remain with the party who uses it, or with the party who has custody of a child under 18 who uses the animal.

It adds a special category for companion animals, recognizing them as “living beings that are generally regarded as cherished family members” and not just items for equitable division.

The factors for judges to weigh when determining possession and care of a pet include:

• Whether the animal was acquired before or during the marriage.
• The basic daily needs of the animal.
• Which party generally facilitates veterinary care and social interaction.
• Which party ensures compliance with state and local regulations, such as licensing.
• The party that provides the greater financial ability to support the animal.

[Mz iMac]

@feline groovy    for the added info.

To me it reads outside of divorce proceedings, pets will still be considered inanimate property on car & homeowner insurance policies.

[Kachina624]

@Mz iMac.  I have a feeling this is more symbolic than it is legally binding because it's virtually impossible to enforce or adjudicate.