Pets fought over in increasing number of divorces

Divorce cases in Britain are increasingly involving custody battles over pets, according to new research.

According to a survey conducted by financial consultancy Grant Thornton of 100 family lawyers, there has been a rise in the number of judges who recognise the importance of a family pet in divorce proceedings.

The study also reveals that women are much more likely to win sole custody of a pet, with 59 per cent being successful in such cases compared to four per cent of men, the Independent reports.

Moreover, Grant Thornton's findings show that a third of divorcing couples are awarded joint custody of their beloved domestic animals.

Head of the firm's matrimonial practice, Andrea McLaren, commented: "While many have never heard of custody battles over pets, or may ridicule those who fight over them, in many cases the pet is considered to be part of the family."

The research suggests that this trend was first made popular in the United States with couples such as actress Drew Barrymore and ex-husband Tom Green, who fought over their dog Flossie.