Blue Cross takes in four pets a week from couples who are divorcing.

One in four divorced couples argue over pets, research shows

The world's first pet nuptial agreement has been launched by the Blue Cross. The charity says it takes in around four pets every week due to broken relationships.

In partnership with divorce lawyers from Lloyd Platt and Company, the charity has put together the pet nup in a bid to reduce some of the stress on pets and owners during a break up.

Vanessa Lloyd Platt from Lloyd Platt and Company, said: “Just as with the house, the car, and the gadgets, it makes sense to agree right at the outset who gets ownership of the horse or the chinchilla in the event of a relationship breakdown or divorce.”

Recent research by the Blue Cross found that a quarter of divorced couples argue over their pets. Dogs and cats were the most argued-about pets, followed by horses, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Alyson Jones, rehoming manager at the charity, said: "One partner will sometimes bring a pet to us for rehoming without the other’s knowledge.

"Our pets are not just material goods; they are often at the heart of our lives, so it is a good idea to agree on your pet’s future in advance to make a difficult situation easier."

The charity's research found that in cases where separating couples couldn't decide who would keep their pets, 15 per cent went to a family friend, 12 per cent were given to a family member and 6 per cent were given to a rehoming charity.

For more information or to download the free Pet Nup, visit: http://www.bluecross.org.uk/132069/pet-nup.html