Inclusion of pets in protection orders is a legal initiative already established in a number of jurisdictions. This allows the courts to direct the care, possession or control of pets or companion animals owned or kept by a petitioner, respondent or child, or to order the respondent to have no contact with such animals.

More information can be obtained by visiting http://www.americanhumane.org/advocacy/legislative-updates/state-issues-2010.html

and http://www.animallawcoalition.com/animal-cruelty/article/589