More than ever before, our pets are considered a part of our families. So what happens to a pet when a marriage ends in divorce?

Pet custody is an increasingly common part of divorce proceedings. In the U.S., pets are still considered personal property, which factors into the financial aspect of a divorce. Under property law, custody of a pet may be given to the person who shows a receipt of purchase, an adoption certificate or evidence of payment for veterinary bills, food or other pet-care expenses.

But more and more, U.S. courts are also taking into account the pet’s best interests. Beyond protecting an animal from an abusive or neglectful situation, many courts are considering the bond a pet has with its special person.

If all concerned take a thoughtful approach, we can do right by the pets that do so much for us.