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Blogs


Getting attacked by a dog in Toronto – What Should You Do?
Dogs are known to be man’s best friend. They can be loyal, loving and kind. However, dogs can also be dangerous by reacting aggressively if they feel provoked, threatened and frightened. Being attacked by a dog can be a very traumatic experience and cause serious damage to the body. If you are attacked by a dog, your first priority is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Dog bites can have detrimental consequences, especially if it’s a puncture wound. A medical pr
petdisputeclinic
Nov 93 min read


Pets are Family: Canada’s small steps towards a brighter future for pet rights
How are pets treated under Canadian Law during separations? Do you think of your pet as part of the family? A fuzzy roommate (that never does the dishes)? A fur baby? Or even a best friend? Nowadays, I think you would say yes to at least one of these questions, along with most Canadians. Our law, however, has not caught up. In most Canadian provinces, pets have been viewed as property. [1] This can get messy when pet owners get separated, as historically, pet custody has been
petdisputeclinic
Nov 14 min read


Paws and Possession: What the Law Says About Who Owns a Pet
When a relationship ends and there’s a pet involved, one of the hardest questions to answer is, “Who gets the pet?”. While most of us see our pets as family, the law in Canada hasn’t quite caught up. Legally, pets are still considered personal property, the same category as your car or couch. This means that courts don’t decide “custody” or “access” for pets the way they do for children. Instead, they focus on one main question: who legally owns the “item”. Having a pet in yo
petdisputeclinic
Nov 13 min read


Beyond Property, Beyond Borders: An International Look At Pets As Family Members
A 2024 study from Financial Post found that 61% of young Canadians would rather have pets than children. [1] This reflects an overall societal shift in how we view the relationships we have with our pets. However, while we may consider our pets as family members, the law has struggled to keep up. Canadian Law & Pets Much has been written about the current treatment of pets in Canadian law. Despite legal commentary recognizing the deep emotional connection we feel for our p
petdisputeclinic
Nov 17 min read


Four Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Your Dog
Looking to show your dog some extra love this Valentine’s Day? Here are four fun ways to celebrate with your furry friend. 1. Visit...
petdisputeclinic
Feb 131 min read


Making a Pawsitive Impact: Our Donation to the Toronto Humane Society
We are pleased to share that the Pro Bone-O Pet Dispute Clinic has donated several hundred bags of Cookie Pal dog treats to the Toronto...
petdisputeclinic
Feb 21 min read


New Year’s Resolutions for Pet Owners : Ways to Help Your Pet Thrive in 2025 and Beyond
The start of a new year can be an excellent time to reflect, set goals, and plan for the future.
petdisputeclinic
Feb 22 min read


Five Countries with Cool Animal Laws: Animal Laws Through an International Lens
Austria Did you know under Austria’s Animal Welfare Act (2004) animals are defined as “fellow creatures” deserving of equal protection to...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 16, 20241 min read


Eight Signs of Pet Distress
Yes, our pets get stressed too! Stress is an emotion that both humans and pets can experience. A change in environment, the introduction...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 16, 20242 min read


“Who’s Keeping Fluffy?” Understanding Ontario Pet Custody Laws Amidst Evolving Changes in BC
With more than 55% of Canadian households having a cat or dog, the stage is set for a rising number of pet custody disputes in family...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 3, 20242 min read


Do Pets Make Good Gifts?
“Dogs are a man’s best friend” is the classic saying so it seems like they would make the best gifts. But do they? We connected with...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 3, 20243 min read


Psychology of Pets: Why People Are So Attached
The Science of Bonding Pet-owners develop an attachment to their pets due to a rise in oxytocin levels. Oxytocin is a hormone associated...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 3, 20242 min read


“Are We Ready to Get a Pet?” Questions to Consider Before Getting a Pet with your Partner
Pet ownership initiates a life-changing commitment that requires responsible planning. Couples should discuss the following questions...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 3, 20242 min read


Pet Custody Mediation: It is Never Too Late to Make a Pet Custody Agreement
When a couple separates, what happens to their pet? Though it is ideal to devise a plan before pet adoption, couples can establish a pet...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 3, 20242 min read


You’re Splitting Up, But Should Your Pets Be? Why Pets Should Be Kept Together After Their Owners Break Up
Should the pets of a divorcing or separating couple be kept together? Under Ontario law, pets are considered personal property and are...
petdisputeclinic
Jan 3, 20242 min read
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