Ruby’s Law and the Future of Pet Protection in Family Law

In our article “What do pet-owning couples need to know if separating?” we discussed the clear bond that often exists between humans and their pets. When a relationship ends, deciding what will happen to your pet and who should care for them can be emotional.

Whilst case law provides that each situation will be determined by its own facts, such as who bought the pet, who was the main carer during the relationship, and who is registered on the pet’s insurance, pets can sometimes be overlooked.

The Law Society Gazette recently highlighted a campaign by family law barrister Christina Warner, known as Ruby’s Law, which seeks to amend the Family Law Act 1996 to include pets within the framework of non-molestation and occupation orders, allowing survivors to keep their pets with them. Additionally, the campaign calls for the Domestic Abuse Act to be amended to classify pet abuse as a form of coercive control.

Research from Refuge4Pets and Dogs Trust shows that 90% of households experiencing domestic abuse report pet abuse, and 94% of cases involve pets as a tool of coercion.

October marks National Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, and during this time, Christina Warner will be presenting her campaign at a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Group.

The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available for all those who have concerns about their safety and can be reached by calling 0808 2000 247.