Will Pet Owners Become Pet Guardians?
A national movement is growing that make affect the relationship between you and your pets.
Some people want to distinguish between a pet “owner” and a pet” guardian.”
A guardian is one who is legally responsible for the care and management of the person or property of an incompetent or a minor.
An owner is someone who controls or possesses something, as property.
The supporters of changes in guardianship laws claim that “owners” consider pets as easily dispensable, but that “guardians” will treat animals with more care and concerns.
Proponents want to eliminate ownership of pets and have them recognized as in their “own right.”
The American Veterinary Association definitely takes an opposing position to this change with this statement:
"The American Veterinary Medical Association promotes the optimal health and welfare of animals. Further, the AVMA recognizes the role of responsible owners in providing for their animals' care. Any change in terminology describing the relationship between animals and owners, including "guardian," does not strengthen this relationship and may, in fact, harm it. Such changes in terminology may adversely affect the ability of society to obtain and deliver animal services and, ultimately, result in animal suffering."
While others argue that if pets’ owners become guardians, it will be easier for others to monitor and control them because a guardianship may be temporary and/or revoked.
This argument is more than a matter of linguistics; it could determine your relationship with your pet.
Keep yourself appraised as this issue evolves.
