Lawyers and Mediators are experts at knowing the law and arriving at a resolution, unfortunately knowing what the long-term effect on the well-being of the animal is not something they learn about in law school. When we put our pets' best interest first, finding the right pet custody solution is easy. My job, as an Animal Behavior expert, is to help my clients establish what the best possibilities are for the pet and come up with a long-term plan that will leave both the pet and the owners with the peace of mind that their animal is taken care of. 

Absolutely. I work in collaboration with mediators and attorneys as an outside expert who works exclusively on the custody issue of your dog, cat or other household pets. It is a common practice to bring in other professionals who have a specific area of expertise to offer assistance and guidance in the divorce process.

Yes. I work with all my clients in the way that is most suitable for them. If you do not wish to talk with each we can meet for different appointments so the two of you don’t need to make direct contact with each other. Even for clients who are able to mediate at the same time, some individual time with me is often a helpful part of the process.

Every state and country has its own laws, however, in the majority of places pets are considered property. This means animals are legally ‘something people own’ no different than a table, car or a lamp. If you end up in court fighting over what will happen with your dog it is likely that a judge will have to make the final decision for you. Pet Mediation is a good option because, even if you and your ex cannot agree on everything, you can make the decision yourselves about your pet, rather and judge making it for you.

No way! The mediator is just there to help everyone communicate and reach a decision they are both happy with. The mediator does not make the final decision – that is up to the pet owners.

I will provide you with a written document of the mediated agreement you both come to. You then take this paper to your divorce professional who can incorporate it into your divorce agreement and ensure it is written in the correct legal language. Your mediator or attorney will advise you on the rules specific to your area about when the agreement becomes legally binding.

Yes, I am also available to help directly with dog behavior issues pre- or post-divorce. It is common for animals to pick up tension in the home and act difficult or strange as a result. For some insight into how your dog may be showing you he or she is stressed please read my article here on 12 Signs of Stress in Dogs.

Pet custody mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps pet owners resolve disputes about their furry friend. The mediator helps everyone talk things out and come to an agreement that everyone is happy with.

Anyone who has a disagreement over the care or ownership of a pet can participate in pet custody mediation. This includes pet owners, co-owners, family members, or even roommates who share responsibility for a pet.

Pet custody mediation is not legally binding, meaning that the agreements reached in mediation are not set in stone. However, if needed, the agreements can be enforced through the court system.

Pet custody mediation is usually faster, less expensive, and less confrontational than going to court. It also provides an opportunity for everyone to work together to find a solution that is best for their pet, instead of relying on a judge's decision.