Pets Are Family NOT Property

I created the petition, “Pets are Family NOT Property,” in honor of Kano, my beloved Olde English Bulldogge, to pass Kano’s Law, which aims to legally recognize and consider a pet’s best interests during custody litigation. Current laws deem pets, or companion animals, equitable to property. They are no different than a TV or toaster, so their best interests are not acknowledged or protected by law. This means all pets can be returned to households where they endured neglect and abuse, just as in Kano's case. We’re 166,600 supporters strong and continue to grow each day. Will you join us?

On September 16, 2022, the Gloucester Township Civil Court of New Jersey ruled that Kano shall be returned to the household where he had been abandoned, neglected, and abused. The judicial system failed Kano. At the time, I believed Kano’s case was unique, however, after reading so many harrowing accounts from supporters, I learned this travesty is all too common. How can we continue to let this happen? At what point do we say enough is enough? I believe, as do so many others, that time is now.

Seventy-percent of American households include a companion animal (American Pet Products Association). Of these households, ninety-nine percent consider their companion animal a member of their family (NCJFCJ). If the majority of Americans regard their pets as family members, why do the laws so blatantly disregard, undermine, and contradict this American value and the moral significance it has to its people (NJSPCA)? Indisputable science proves that companion animals are sentient beings capable of feelings such as fear, happiness, and love (ALDF & PETA). Their well-being and best interests matter and should be afforded legal recognition and protection. Current laws equating pets to property are antiquated and harmful, not only to our companions, but to our communities and society as a whole (ALDF & National Link Coalition).

Your purchase will help us continue our fight for Kano. The money goes directly to our legal expenses. Any extra funds raised will be donated to animal shelters and sanctuaries. We will be documenting everything on our GoFundMe page (https://gofund.me/55cabbb2). Please help us regain custody of Kano and continue our fight for all companion animals. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.