Unfortunately, the law considers pets to be personal property. So no, pet custody is not legally "a thing". In the eyes of the law, they are equivalent to any tangible property like jewelry, a car, or furniture. We know this is not the case, but it’s what we have to work with.  When a couple does not agree on ownership of the pet following a divorce, dispute arises. If this is the case and your spouse plans to fight for ownership, you should too.