Jacques Von Lunen
OregonLive.com
A New Jersey court has ordered a separated couple to share custody of their pug, possibly creating a precedent for future divorce cases. The couple’s pet-custody battle, referenced in a recent “Pet Talk” column on pets in a divorce, had garnered national headlines after an appeals panel had sent the case back to Superior Court Judge John Tomasello with the comment that the judge shouldn’t have treated Dexter, the pug, “like furniture.” On Monday, Tomasello obliged the higher court – and the plaintiff – by ordering what amounts to shared custody.
Eric Dare and Doreen Houseman separated in 2006 and agreed to split up time with Dexter, their dog. But after Houseman started dating again, Dare refused to let her see Dexter. Houseman took the matter to court. But dogs are considered property in the eyes of the law and Judge Tomasello would only grant Houseman financial considerations for Dexter’s purchase price. That’s not what Houseman was looking for and a years-long legal battle ensued.
Source: http://www.oregonlive.com/pets/index.ssf/2009/09/new_jersey_judge_sets_possible.html
