In recent years, there has been growing discussion about how family pets are treated during relationship breakdowns and divorce. That conversation gained momentum in 2025 (including in our own article on pets and separation), shining a light on the deep emotional bond many families have with their animals and the important role pets play in everyday family life.
This wider discussion has also opened the door to a more urgent issue: the protection of pets in situations of domestic abuse.
What is Ruby’s Law?
In 2025, family law barrister Christina Warner launched a campaign known as Ruby’s Law, which is named after Christina’s cat. The campaign calls for changes to the law to better protect pets where domestic abuse is taking place. The aim is to close gaps in the current legal framework by amending the Family Law Act 1996 and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, so that pets are explicitly recognised and protected. If successful, this would mark the first time pets are formally recognised in this way under English law.
Why this matters
Christina’s research highlighted that there is a strong link between domestic abuse and harm to pets. Abusers may threaten or harm animals as a way of exerting control, instilling fear and preventing victims from leaving an unsafe situation.
Currently:
- Non-molestation orders do not specifically refer to pets.
- Occupation orders do not require courts to consider who will care for a pet, or whether it will remain safe.
- Harm or threats to pets are not expressly recognised in law as a form of controlling or coercive behaviour.
This can leave both victims and their animals vulnerable.
A major development: the Domestic Abuse (Pets) Bill
In a significant step forward, the campaign has now moved from advocacy into Parliament.
The Domestic Abuse (Pets) Bill began its parliamentary journey this month and is scheduled for a second reading on 17 April. The bill has been brought forward as a private members’ bill with cross-party support.
If passed, the bill would:
- Include pets within non-molestation orders, allowing courts to protect animals from harm or threats
- Enable courts making occupation orders to consider who should care for the pet and how its welfare can be safeguarded
- Explicitly recognise abuse or threats towards pets as a form of controlling or coercive behaviour under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021
- Allow veterinary records, witness evidence and digital evidence (such as messages threatening harm to a pet) to be used in court
- Permit courts to treat animal abuse as an aggravating factor when assessing risk and sentencing
What happens next?
The bill is still at an early stage, but its progression to a second reading marks an important moment. It reflects growing recognition that pets are often part of the pattern of abuse and that protecting them can also help protect victims. Even if legislative change takes time, the conversation Ruby’s Law has generated is already influencing how professionals think about pets, safety and domestic abuse.
How we can help
If you are experiencing domestic abuse or are worried about the safety of a pet during a family dispute, you are not alone. Our family law team can talk you through your options, help you understand the protections currently available, and support you in taking steps to protect both yourself and your animals.
Please do get in touch if you would like confidential advice.
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