MN SF838

Authorizes courts to include provisions in domestic abuse protective orders directing the care, possession, or control of pets and companion animals owned or possessed by either party or their children.

Allows courts to order the respondent to have no contact with pets or companion animals as part of protective order relief.

Extends pet and companion animal protections to both full protective orders issued after notice and hearing and emergency ex parte protective orders issued when immediate danger is alleged.

Pet and companion animal provisions may be included for up to two years, or longer if the court determines a longer period is appropriate, consistent with other protective order relief.