Image: The News International

Brazil Passes Law Allowing Joint Custody of Pets for Separating Couples

02 April, 2026.South America.3 sources

Key Takeaways

Brazil's new law allows joint custody of pets; courts decide arrangements absent agreement.
Law recognizes pets as more than property, acknowledging emotional and family significance.
Congress approved the reform to recognize pets as family in separations.

Pet Custody Legislation

Brazilian Congress passed legislation allowing courts to determine shared custody for pets of separating couples.

“- Published Courts in Brazil will be able to determine shared custody arrangements for the pets of separating couples, under new laws”

BBC

The pet must have spent the majority of its life with the couple for the law to apply.

BBC

Shared custody will not be granted in cases of prior criminal records or domestic violence.

Brazil has about 160 million pets for its 213 million people.

This aligns Brazil with France and Spain, which have recognized pet custody.

Courts Recognize Emotional Bonds

Brazilian courts have increasingly recognized the emotional bond between owners and their animals.

Judges have considered who feeds the animal and where it is best cared for.

ICLG

Couples with fewer children tend to have closer relationships with their animals.

The approval by Congress represents a major shift in legal culture.

Legal Thresholds and Protections

The law includes safeguards preventing custody in cases of domestic violence or prior criminal records.

“Brazil approves law giving separated couples joint custody of pets 213 million people in Brazil have about 160 million pets Brazil has approved new laws, introducing joint custody rights for the pets of separating couples”