What is Pet Mediation?

Pet mediation refers to a specialized form of mediation aimed at resolving disputes related to pets. This is sometimes referred to as “pet custody”. These disputes can involve issues such as visitation schedules, pet care decisions, division of pet-related expenses, and other matters concerning the care and ownership of pets.

Pet custody disputes can be emotionally taxing and legally complex affairs. Pets are cherished members of the family, and disagreements over their care can escalate quickly, leading to prolonged legal battles and heightened stress levels.

This can be especially true in Ontario where pets are considered personal property. Within a litigation, this only allows a Judge to make an Order that one party keeps the pet or that the pet is sold, and net proceeds are divided. This is far from the outcome that parties wish to have.  This process involves the parties needing to prove “ownership” and litigating, which is costly. This approach does not consider the best interests nor the needs of the pet or other members of the family.

In Pet Mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates communication and negotiation between the parties involved in the dispute, helping them reach mutually acceptable agreements that prioritize the well-being of the pet. The mediator assists the parties in identifying their interests and concerns, exploring potential solutions, and ultimately reaching a resolution that meets the needs of both parties and, most importantly, ensures the welfare of the pet. Pet Mediation can be a more amicable and efficient alternative to traditional litigation, allowing pet owners to resolve conflicts in a collaborative manner while minimizing stress and expense.

When choosing a mediator for your mediation involving a pet dispute, it would be wise to consider a mediator who has specialized training in pet mediations . Mediators with specialized training in pet mediations have a deep understanding of the unique dynamics involved in pet disputes, including pet behaviours, emotional attachments, how to detect signs of stress, and how to structure the appropriate schedule for your pet taking into consideration the pets age, breed and family attachments.  By fostering constructive communication and collaboration, these mediators can help parties work together to find creative solutions to their pet disputes, ultimately leading to more satisfactory outcomes for all involved, including the beloved pets.