MINDFULNESS MATTERS: The Power of Pets
by Cynthia Runge
Pets can be a powerful support during a transition such as divorce.
As a divorce lawyer, many of my clients need assistance concerning custody of their children. Sometimes, these “children” have furry bodies and tails. While I can obtain custody orders for human children, I have not as yet been able to obtain custody orders for pets. Under MA law, pets are still considered to be property. However, a new and exciting Superior Court decision has just come down which gives hope to the those involved in pet custody disputes (see summary of Lyman decision above).
If you ask anyone who has a pet why they love it so much, they will often tell you it is the unconditional love the pet provides. For example, who is the first “person” to greet you at the door when you come home? (assuming you don’t have a pet snake or pet fish). Who do you love to snuggle with in good and/or bad times? Your pets. People are pretty good too, sometimes (grin).
People ask, “Are you a dog person, or a cat person?” Somehow that is supposed to mean something? I think it does… While I love dogs, (BTW, we have several visiting canines on any given day in our office as you can see in this quarterly edition), I, myself prefer felines. We recently got a new kitten at home and introduced him to our older Siamese female. Talk about drama! And I thought the probate and family court was wild! However, the two cats sorted out their differences in 1.5 days and while I can’t say the Siamese “loves” the kitten, she has already developed some kind of relationship with him, when he isn’t full body leaping on her.
Having a pet can provide a sense of purpose, stability, and well-being, especially when you are going through a major transition such as divorce. It used to be you could pick up a dog or cat at the mall, but I’m dating myself. Unfortunately, there are many shelters with animals that need loving homes, but not enough people to adopt. Check this out if you are considering adding to your family: https://www.mspca.org
In closing, there are many paths to supporting your wellbeing. What works for your friend or sibling may not be what resonates with you. However, I have found that it is usually the simplest pleasures, such as playing with one's pet, that can bring a smile to your face when you're feeling stressed or sad.
This article appeared in our Spring 2024 Newsletter.
