MA H1817

Creates new Section 34E in Chapter 208 requiring courts to consider the "best interest of the animal" when awarding pet custody in divorce or separation proceedings, including the pet's health, safety, comfort, and well-being

Courts must evaluate each party's history with the animal (time spent, expenses incurred, caregiving responsibilities), emotional attachments of parties and children, and any history of abuse, cruelty, neglect, or violence toward animals or humans

Allows courts to award sole or shared custody of pets, with shared custody orders specifying division of time and expenses for food, toys, grooming, training, and veterinary care

Prohibits pets from being transferred, concealed, or disposed of during proceedings without written agreement or court order, and permits parties to seek temporary custody orders

Enables court enforcement of pet custody agreements through contempt proceedings for married couples and complaints in equity for non-married individuals