Make the best dog custody agreement during a divorce
When crafting a dog custody agreement, consider who has the most space and time to provide the best care for your dog.
Major life changes
Dogs are family, and when you adopt one, you commit to keeping that dog happy and healthy for 10 to 15 years. That means you need to be prepared for helping your dog adapt to major life changes like moving, going to college, getting married, having a baby, or getting a divorce.
Moving
Moving: Moving is stressful for everyone, but with planning, moving to a new city can be as easy as a quick stroll around the dog park. With boxes scattered around, familiar items disappearing, and people coming in and out, your dog knows something is changing.
Don’t be surprised if your dog becomes anxious and a lot more clingy. Ease that anxiety with extra attention. Take your dog on extra walks and give them more playtime.
Adding a new roommate? Help your dog to adapt to happily cohabitating with his new roomie, especially if that roommate will vie for your attention.
Going to college: Many students are required to live on campus for their first year of college. If this is the case, even if you choose a dog-friendly college, can your dog live in the dorm?
Adding family
Getting married: What better way than to celebrate one of the most important days of your life than by planning a dog-friendly wedding? Once you’ve decided you want your dog in your wedding, make sure the venue you choose is puppy-friendly.
Having a baby: Getting ready to add a little human to your pack? Don’t be surprised if your dog knows you’re pregnant before you do. But even though your dog knows something is changing, you’ll still need to help prepare your pup for the baby’s arrival.
Divorce
Getting a divorce: Divorce can be a whirlwind of emotions, but it’s essential to keep your dog’s welfare in mind despite your sorrow or anger. One thing you’ll need to resolve is who gets custody of your dog? If you decide to share custody, start by determining who will be the dog’s legal owner.
Top 5 rules to make friends with your partner’s dog
Follow these rules to become closer to your partner’s dog and your partner. If you treat her dog well she will know that you will treat her well.
Dog co-parenting: Everything you need to know
Dog co-parenting allows dog owners to split costs and allows the dog to be with the owner who has the most free time to give.
5 things to consider before you take your dog to college
Before you take your dog to college, consider whether you’ll have the time and financial resources to give your dog proper care.
Can dogs smell pregnancy?
Dogs sense pregnancy by smelling hormonal changes. Their heightened sense of smell allows dogs to sniff out medical conditions, including pregnancy.
Who gets the dog in divorce? More prenups include pets
Dog in divorce: Who gets custody of your beloved dog? Is there a way to prevent more heartache and still decide what’s best for your dog?
7 tips to plan a dog-friendly wedding
Before planning a dog-friendly wedding, you need to consider your partner’s opinion, venue rules, and guest fears or allergies.
How to move in with your significant other and your dogs
Help dog adapt to new roommate: Set expectations, make compromises and give your dog extra time and attention during the transition.
How to be a good dog owner during major life changes
Major life changes: Take care of your dog even while you are hunting for a new job, moving or starting a family.
Make your dog part of your wedding day
With a little planning, you can include dog in your wedding. Consider the venue, photographer and food. And appoint a wedding day dog handler.
