It isn’t regarded as “custody” in the Court’s eyes. The courts view pets as “property” that needs to be divided, despite acknowledging the emotional bond people have with their dogs. The same rules that apply to other goods or material possessions in your possession also apply to your pet. A pet caught up in a dispute will be included in the divorce decree once it is approved by the court. Usually, in a divorce settlement, one spouse gets to keep the family pet. It’s uncommon for a couple to agree on a time-sharing arrangement to decide where the family pet will reside next.