PETITION TARGET: President of the Colorado Senate and Speaker of the Colorado House of Representatives
In Colorado, animal companions trapped in divorce battles are still treated like property — meaning judges may decide their fate without considering their health, safety, or well-being.
Now, a state bill has been introduced that would require courts to weigh several important factors related to an animal’s welfare when determining where they will live and who will care for them.
“As a legislator who is committed to the improvement of life of everyone, including sentient ‘property’, it’s important to give judges the authority to look beyond pets as property and as beings that deserve the best outcomes in divorce and separation cases,” said Representative Alex Valdez, the bill’s prime sponsor.
If passed, House Bill 26-1131 would allow courts to grant shared or sole custody of an animal companion during divorce proceedings, taking into account each person’s history with the animal, the emotional bond between the animal and members of the household, and whether either party has a history of abusing animals or people.
If the court determines that shared custody is appropriate, it must decide how responsibility for the animal will be divided, including time commitments and financial obligations.
The legislation would also empower judges to issue emergency protection orders concerning the custody and care of an animal companion.
This critical reform would help ensure animal companions receive the care they need when guardians separate and acknowledge that they are more than mere property to be divided.
Sign our petition urging Colorado lawmakers to support this legislation so animal companions receive the consideration and dignity they deserve in divorce cases.
