According to national statistics, 62% of homes have one or more pets. It is no surprise that divorce disputes about who gets the family pet are common – and they are often contentious. For most people, pets are an important part of the family, but for some, they are considered valued family members. Fights over pet custody can stall or even halt divorce settlement proceedings leaving no alternative but litigation to resolve the matter. If your pet is a valued part of your life, you should make your attorney aware of your feelings up front.