I am writing this petition out of personal heartbreak and a desire for change. First I would like to thank you for writing in the comments section why you are signing this petition.  It will help us get this law changed so that our beloved pets who are filled with unconditional love get the rights they deserve.  Thank you all for your help!

Animals are more than just property. They are sentient beings capable of feeling pain and experiencing emotions. They form deep bonds with their human caretakers and become integral parts of our families. Yet, under current laws across many jurisdictions, pets are still considered property.

This is not only emotionally distressing for pet owners who lose their pets to accidents or violence but also limits legal recourse in cases where animals are harmed intentionally or through negligence.

The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that 38.4% of households in the United States have dogs and 25.4% have cats (AVMA, 2017-2018). These figures represent millions of animals who deserve recognition as family members rather than mere possessions.  We adopt them, we give them names, we cuddle with them, we play with them, we feed them, we provide medical care for them, we manage our lives around them, they are included in our family photos, they are family members.

We must push for legislative change to recognize our pets as family members rather than property under the law - a shift that will provide them with greater protection and acknowledge the emotional bond between humans and their animal companions.

The legal classification of pets as property can indeed result in certain limitations and challenges, particularly when it comes to issues such as inheritance, the owner's death, or the pet's death. Here are some examples of limitations:

Inheritance Issues:
No Automatic Inheritance Rights: Pets do not have automatic inheritance rights like human family members. When an owner dies, the pet may be treated as part of the deceased's estate, and decisions regarding the pet's future may be subject to the terms of the owner's will or estate plan.

Limited Legal Protections:
Limited Legal Recourse for Harm: If someone harms or kills a pet, the legal remedies available may be limited. The damages awarded in court are often based on the market value of the pet rather than emotional value, which can be distressing for owners who see their pets as beloved family members.

Estate Planning Challenges:
Limited Provisions for Pets in Wills: While some jurisdictions allow individuals to make provisions for their pets in their wills, the enforceability and scope of such provisions can vary. It may not always be straightforward to ensure that a pet is adequately cared for after the owner's death.

Lack of Decision-Making Power for Pets:
No Say in Medical Decisions: When a pet is ill or requires medical treatment, the owner has sole decision-making authority. If there are disputes among family members or if the owner is unable to make decisions, there may not be clear legal mechanisms for resolving these issues.

Limited Legal Recognition of Emotional Value:
Emotional Value Not Legally Recognized: While many people consider their pets to be valued members of the family, the legal system typically recognizes pets as property with a monetary value. This can lead to challenges in cases of loss or harm, as emotional distress may not be adequately compensated.

It's worth noting that laws and perspectives on these issues can vary by jurisdiction, and there is ongoing debate about the legal status of pets and whether changes are needed to better reflect the emotional bonds between humans and their animal companions. Some jurisdictions are considering or have implemented measures to provide greater protections for pets in certain situations.

Please sign this petition to demand legal recognition for animals as family members instead of property.