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https://shroffanimallaw.com/Shroff & Associates/Shroff Animal Law, Vancouver’s pioneering Pet & Animal Law Firm for 25 + years. Conveniently Located in downtown Vancouver, Canada.
To make an Animal law appointment:
604. 891-0209 M-F, 8:30 – 5 p.m. Or Email: ShroffandAssociates@gmail.com
– For links to interviews & articles and more information on lawyer Victoria Shroff, KC’s, extensive work as a pioneer in Animal law, educator and writer click here. (The UBC Expert’s Guide)
Follow us on X/Twitter/ @shroffanimallaw http://twitter.com/shroffanimallaw
Instagram @shroffanimalLaw
–LinkedIn/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/v-victoria-shroff-0631601/
“Pet Custody” -Groundbreaking new Family laws in BC in 2024
V. Victoria Shroff, KC has done many interviews on pet custody/ownership disputes & was quoted in the government’s press release when the new family law involving companion animals was introduced. “These amendments reflect how pets are valued as unique family members by society rather than as inanimate property like furniture,” said V. Victoria Shroff, animal law specialist at Shroff and Associates. “Having relevant factors to consider for these difficult decisions will bring more clarity and is a welcome change.” -Changes to Family Law Act will make it easier for separating couples https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023AG0020-000389
Watch one of the many news interviews on Pet Custody https://globalnews.ca/news/10226594/bc-family-law-bill-17/ |https://globalnews.ca/video/10226990/b-c-has-set-up-a-family-model-for-other-jurisdictions-across-canada-lawyer
[V. V. Shroff, KC speaking at the Hon. Premier’s Press Conference with Premier Eby and Hon N.Sharma, KC, Attorney General of BC caption]
* Victoria provided input into the new laws & was quoted in the BC Govt. Press Release on January 15, 2024 when the new Pet Custody/Family Laws were ushered in: ” V. Victoria Shroff, KC, B.C.’s pioneering animal law lawyer and adjunct professor of animal law at UBC’s Peter A. Allard school of law “Pets are unique members of our families, not inanimate property like furniture, and our family laws now reflect this. B.C. has taken the lead in Canada when it comes to deciding ‘who gets the pet’ when a couple splits up. This first-of-its-kind legislation considers the interests of the whole family, including relational aspects of the bond between companion animals and their family.” ” https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024PREM0001-000036
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* Watch Global TV Interview on the new Pet Custody Laws featuring Victoria Shroff, KC https://globalnews.ca/video/9587131/bc-looks-at-new-guidance-for-pet-custody-disputes
CTV news Clip: https://vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca/video/c2847448-b-c–changes-approach-to-pet-custody-disputes
Victoria’s article in the Georgia Straight: ‘Who gets the pet in a divorce? BC’s new pet custody laws make it easier to decide’ https://www.straight.com/city-culture/who-gets-pet-in-a-divorce-bcs-new-pet-custody-laws-make-it-easier-to-decide
Victoria featured in Globe & Mail Interview- Who gets the dog in a divorce? Changes to B.C. family law hope to help courts decide – The Globe and Mail https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-pets-divorce-family-law/
Victoria’s’New’ Animal Law Book is out! The 2nd Edition of Canadian Animal Law (Lexis Nexis https://store.lexisnexis.com/en-ca/products/canadian-animal-law-2nd-edition.html) was published in September 2025 and features a Foreword by the Hon. Catherine Fraser, AOE, KC!
Quote from Foreword to Canadian Animal Law 
Info/Order Lexis Nexis https://lnkd.in/ghJtNCjK
“This second edition of Canadian Animal Law, by Victoria Shroff, KC, one of Canada’s leading animal law lawyer-educators…makes a compelling case for change. Written in easily understoodlanguage, it is an indispensable resource not only for lawyers and law students but also for others who want a comprehensive understanding about the current state of animals and the law in Canada. “—-The Hon. Catherine Fraser, AOE, KC (Former Chief Justice of Alberta)—from Foreword to Canadian Animal Law by V. Victoria Shroff, KC
Victoria’s book was reviewed by the legendary legal journalist, Edward Fennell. (Edward Fennell’s Diary, Feb. 2026):
“Like most things peculiarly successful these days it comes from Canada
having been written by V. Victoria Shroff, KC, Canada’s first and only
animal law lawyer appointed King’s Counsel. She is an Associate Fellow
of the UK’s Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics and has 25years of
experience working in this unusual field. And as as British Columbia’s
longest-serving animal law practitioner Shroff is recognized as a
national leader in the field.
So under the title Canadian Animal Law — Marking a new era in
Canadian Animal Law her formidable new second edition of the work is
now published by LexisNexis Canada. Aimed at legal professionals,
academics, students, policymakers, and animal advocates the book is
also likely to have relevance to those interested in companion, wild, and
farmed animal issues. And to mark the event Shroff will be part of a
panel on Tuesday next (March 3) at the University of Victoria, where
she will appear alongside British Columbia’s Attorney General to
discuss evolving issues in animal law, including pet custody and family
law reform.
Featuring In-depth commentary and analysis across mainstream legal
areas including family law, criminal law, housing, wills and estates,
environmental law, and professional liability Shroff also includes real-
life case examples and case law highlighting intersectional perspectives
and practical implications. Dedicated chapters addressing international
animal law, wildlife law, and the roles of animals in research and science
complete the package.
Adding weight to the launch the Canadian Lawyer recently published an
article by Shroff in which she reflects on the significant progress of
animal law over the past 25 years—and the work still to be done.”
Other Animal Law News Articles:
Q. Are you ready to be sued by your pet? https://vancouversun.com/opinion/columnists/are-you-ready-to-be-sued-by-your-pet (Mulgrew) “Vancouver lawyer Victoria Shroff, who 22 years ago became one of the first specialists in animal law, thinks a sea-change is underway with the growing acceptance that some animals have a sense of consciousness. Analysis: Since the start of the century, the animal rights movement has gained increasing support and momentum in the marketplace, in courtrooms and in legislatures. Law adjunct professor Victoria Shroff discussed the growing animal rights movement and that recognizing animals as sentient beings in the law.”
CKNW Mornings with Simi, CKNW The Jas Johal Show
DOG ATTACKS & the LAW
Vancouver dog mauling: Owner urged to come forward | CTV News http://Vancouver dog mauling: Owner urged to come forward | CTV News https://bc.ctvnews.ca/failure-of-woman-to-come-forward-could-be-aggravating-factor-in-dog-mauling-case-lawyer-1.6998450
On The Coast with Gloria Macarenko Legal implications of dog-on-dog attacks https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-46/clip/16087874
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Longtime animal lawyer takes her canine co-teacher to Vancouver school for class on empathy | Vancouver Sun https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/longtime-animal-lawyer-takes-her-canine-co-teacher-to-vancouver-school-for-class-on-empathy
-Opinion Article: Consider the octopus, and how it could challenge our ideas about meat – The Globe and Mail (E. Anderssen)|
Adjunct Professor Victoria Shroff (Peter A. Allard School of Law) gave comments on the future of animal law. Globe and Mail “Octopuses are smart, playful and emotional in ways humans haven’t begun to understand. As Victoria Shroff, a prominent animal-law lawyer in Canada”, . https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-octopus-eating-meat-ethics/
Textbook written by V. Shroff, KC-
Canadian Animal Law 
https://store.lexisnexis.ca/en/categories/shop-by-jurisdiction/federal-13/canadian-animal-law-skusku-cad-6857/detai For more information or to order the animal law book V. Victoria Shroff, KC, wrote called Canadian Animal Law– click this link (LexisNexis 2021 & 2nd Ed. 2025) http://ow.ly/Y5EF50FV0Ev
—
Shroff’s #Tedx on ‘Why Animals Need Law’
https://youtu.be/Atb0SyUN3HA?si=-gIkfz98MuNa8a0k
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Some of V. Victoria Shroff’s Animal Law WORK is on the UBC Expert’s Guide: https://experts.news.ubc.ca/expert/victoria-shroff/
At Shroff Animal Law we assist clients in all areas of Animal Law, Animal Protection/Rights, Wildlife and Animal Welfare at all levels of Court for all kinds of animals. Over the years, Victoria has either been interviewed or written on many types of animal law cases.
Types of Animal Law Cases we handle at Shroff Animal Law Include: 
- ‘dangerous dog’ cases – dogs on death row or accused of being vicious
- “pet custody” – Who gets the dog when the couple or the roommates split up?
- Pet or Animal Ownership Issues–who is the rightful owner of the animal?
- pets issues in strata and tenancy – problems with neighbours, problems with strata council and pets, landlord tenant issues, eviction, problematic behaviours
- animals in transportation– on trucks, planes, taxis
- service animals, guide dogs, comfort animals, seeing eye dogs companion animals, emotional support animals human rights, discrimination
- animals and mental health issues
- wills and estates involving pets and animals
- animals in science, research labs- issues,
- tainted pet food,
- cat and dog hoarding,
- serious dog bite, dog attack, injuries– dog bite on humans, other pets, children
- human rights
- adoption issues
- veterinary malpractice – negligence, mistakes, treatment issues
- urban and not so urban wildlife – bears, coyotes, squirrels, raccoons, rats, mice, rabbits
- pet insurance – denial of claim by pet insurance company
- horse cases, pig cases
- cruelty,
- defamation
- breeder cases – unhealthy animals, poor welfare
- groomer cases – injuries and problems
- animal advocacy, animal rights, animal welfare issues
- just about anything related to animals and the law.
- Animal Law mediation
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V. Victoria Shroff, KC, has lectured extensively on animal law locally and internationally and is frequently called upon by major media such as CBC TV and Radio, Global TV and Radio for her specialized knowledge on all things animal law. In 2021, V. Victoria Shroff wrote a book called Canadian Animal Law for Lexis Nexis. http://ow.ly/Y5EF50FV0Ev She also regularly writes about animal law and her work has been published in lawyer magazines and mainstream publications. 
Animal Law FAQ With BC’s Pioneering Animal Law Lawyer,V. Victoria Shroff, KC
*The information provided here is general. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such.*
Pet Custody & Family Law
1. Who gets the dog after a divorce in Canada?
Pets are generally treated as property under Canadian law. Courts may consider who purchased the animal, who paid veterinary bills, and who primarily cared for the pet. In British Columbia, disputes about companion animals (dogs, cats) may arise under the Family Law Act (British Columbia) “Pet custody\” is an informal term. Issue is pet ownership.
2. Can a court order shared custody of a pet?
Courts have very occasionally recognized shared custody arrangements between former partners, but they typically focus on determining legal ownership rather than complicated custody schedules. Sharing is often a bad idea for the pet and the people. Under the Family Law Act, a court deciding who gets the pet? One spouse only!
3. Are pets considered property in Canadian law?
Yes. In most legal contexts, animals are classified as property. However, courts increasingly recognize that pets have emotional value and may consider welfare factors when resolving disputes.
4. Can a pet be included in a separation agreement? Yes. Couples can include provisions in separation agreements about who will own the pet and who will be responsible for care and expenses.
5. What happens if both partners claim ownership of the pet? Courts may examine purchase records, veterinary documents, licensing records, and evidence of who cared for the animal and other things.
Landlord & Strata & Condo & Housing Issues & Pets
6. Can landlords refuse pets in British Columbia? Yes. Under the Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia) landlords can include “no pets” clauses in rental agreements.
7. Are service animals allowed in rental housing? Yes. The British Columbia Human Rights Code, also requires accommodation for disabilities.
8. Can a landlord evict a tenant in a house or condo because of a pet? If the tenancy agreement prohibits pets or the animal causes damage or disturbances, eviction proceedings may occur.
9. Can landlords charge pet deposits in BC? Yes. Landlords can charge a pet damage deposit, usually limited to half a month’s rent.
Dog Bites & Dangerous Dogs
10. Who is responsible if a dog bites someone in BC?
Dog owners may be liable if they fail to properly control their animal such as failing to leash or if negligence can be proven.
11. Can a dog owner be sued after a bite incident?
Yes. Victims may pursue compensation for injuries, medical costs, and other damages in court.
12. What is a dangerous dog designation?
Municipalities may declare a dog “dangerous” if they have attacked or seriously threatened people or animals. A dog could be put onto “death row” depending on the case.
13. What happens at a dangerous dog hearing?
The Court reviews evidence about the dog’s behaviour from both points of view–the state and the defence. Each case differs. Possible outcomes include euthanasia or release of dog back to the owner. A dog could be put down. These cases need to be taken seriously.
14. Can a dangerous dog designation be challenged?
In some cases, owners may successfully challenge decisions.
15. Can you sue a veterinarian for malpractice in Canada?
Yes. Veterinary malpractice claims may arise if a veterinarian fails to meet professional standards.
16. What is veterinary negligence? Examples may include misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, or failure to obtain informed consent.
17. Who regulates veterinarians in British Columbia? Veterinarians are licensed professionals and regulated by the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia
18. What laws protect animals from cruelty in Canada?Animal cruelty offences may be prosecuted under the Criminal Code of Canada as well as provincial legislation.
19. What should you do if you suspect animal abuse? Reports can often be made to animal welfare authorities or organizations such as the British Columbia SPCA
20. Can someone be charged criminally for harming an animal?Yes. Serious acts of cruelty can result in criminal charges, fines, or imprisonment.
21. Are service animals allowed in restaurants and public places? Yes, service animals are generally permitted in public places under human rights protections.
22. Can businesses refuse entry to a service animal? Businesses must usually accommodate service animals unless there is a legitimate safety concern.
23. Can pets be included in a will in Canada? Pets should be included in estate planning. While pets cannot inherit property directly, owners can potentially create trusts or arrangements for their care.
24. What legal issues fall under animal law? Animal law or pet law issues includes dog bite cases, pet custody disputes, dangerous dog hearings, landlord-tenant pet issues, veterinary malpractice, and animal welfare cases. There are also cases involving horse, wild animals and farmed animals.
25. Do I need a lawyer for an animal law dispute? Because animal law often intersects with family law, civil litigation, municipal law, and regulatory law, legal advice can help clarify rights and options for people and hopefully avoid expensive court time. Contact ShroffAndAssociates@gmail.com to book a consultation about your animal law case.
#AnimalLaw #AnimalLawyer #PetCustody #DangerousDogs #VictoriaShroff #VancouverAnimalLawyer”
Contact:(604) 891-0209 to make an animal law
appointment or email: shroffandassociates@gmail.com
{Please note that information obtained from our Website isn’t, nor meant to be, legal advice. No solicitor/client relationship is created, and people or entities do not become clients, unless and until we expressly agree to act for the person or entity, and specifically not until the retainer agreement is signed.}
Animal Law FAQ (Canada & British Columbia) With BC’s Pioneering Animal Law Lawyer, V. Victoria Shroff, KC
Pet Custody & Family Law
1. Who gets the dog after a divorce in Canada?
Pets are generally treated as property under Canadian law. Courts may consider who purchased the animal, who paid veterinary bills, and who primarily cared for the pet. In British Columbia, disputes may arise under the Family Law Act (British Columbia). “Pet custody” is an informal term. Issue is pet ownership.
2. Can a court order shared custody of a pet?
Courts have very occasionally recognized shared custody arrangements between former partners, but they typically focus on determining legal ownership rather than custody schedules. Sharing is often a bad idea. Under the Family Law Act, a court deciding who gets the pet? One spouse only!
3. Are pets considered property in Canadian law?
Yes. In most legal contexts, animals are classified as property. However, courts increasingly recognize that pets have emotional value and may consider welfare factors when resolving disputes.
4. Can a pet be included in a separation agreement?
Yes. Couples can include provisions in separation agreements about who will own the pet and who will be responsible for care and expenses.
5. What happens if both partners claim ownership of the pet?
Courts may examine purchase records, veterinary documents, licensing records, and evidence of who cared for the animal and other things.
Landlord & Housing Issues
6. Can landlords refuse pets in British Columbia?
Yes. Under the Residential Tenancy Act (British Columbia), landlords can include “no pets” clauses in rental agreements.
7. Are service animals allowed in rental housing?
Yes. The British Columbia Human Rights Code, also requires accommodation for disabilities.
8. Can a landlord evict a tenant because of a pet?
If the tenancy agreement prohibits pets or the animal causes damage or disturbances, eviction proceedings may occur through the Residential Tenancy Branch.
9. Can landlords charge pet deposits in BC?
Yes. Landlords can charge a pet damage deposit, usually limited to half a month’s rent.
Dog Bites & Dangerous Dogs
10. Who is responsible if a dog bites someone in BC?
Dog owners may be liable if they fail to properly control their animal or if negligence can be proven.
11. Can a dog owner be sued after a bite incident?
Yes. Victims may pursue compensation for injuries, medical costs, and other damages in court.
12. What is a dangerous dog designation?
Municipalities may declare a dog “dangerous” if they have attacked or seriously threatened people or animals. A dog could be put onto “death row” depending on the case.
13. What happens at a dangerous dog hearing?
The Court reviews evidence about the dog’s behaviour from both points of view–the state and the defence. Each case differs. Possible outcomes include euthanasia or release of dog back to the owner. A dog could be put down. These cases need to be taken seriously.
14. Can a dangerous dog designation be appealed?
In some cases, owners may challenge decisions.
Veterinary Law
15. Can you sue a veterinarian for malpractice in Canada?
Yes. Veterinary malpractice claims may arise if a veterinarian fails to meet professional standards.
16. What is veterinary negligence?
Examples may include misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, or failure to obtain informed consent.
17. Who regulates veterinarians in British Columbia?
Veterinarians are licensed professionals and regulated by the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia.
Animal Welfare & Protection
18. What laws protect animals from cruelty in Canada?
Animal cruelty offences may be prosecuted under the Criminal Code of Canada as well as provincial legislation.
19. What should you do if you suspect animal abuse?
Reports can often be made to animal welfare authorities or organizations such as the British Columbia SPCA.
20. Can someone be charged criminally for harming an animal?
Yes. Serious acts of cruelty can result in criminal charges, fines, or imprisonment.
Service Animals & Public Access
21. Are service animals allowed in restaurants and public places?
Yes, service animals are generally permitted in public places under human rights protections.
22. Can businesses refuse entry to a service animal?
Businesses must usually accommodate service animals unless there is a legitimate safety concern.
Other Animal Law Questions
23. Can pets be included in a will in Canada?
Pets should be included in estate planning. While pets cannot inherit property directly, owners can potentially create trusts or arrangements for their care.
24. What legal issues fall under animal law?
Animal law or pet law issues includes dog bite cases, pet custody disputes, dangerous dog hearings, landlord-tenant pet issues, veterinary malpractice, and animal welfare cases. There are also cases involving horse, wild animals and farmed animals.
25. Do I need a lawyer for an animal law dispute?
Because animal law often intersects with family law, civil litigation, municipal law, and regulatory law, legal advice can help clarify rights and options in complex situations.
#AnimalLaw #AnimalLawyer #PetCustody #DangerousDogs #VictoriaShroff #VancouverAnimalLawyer
Shroff & Associates/Shroff Animal Law, Vancouver’s pioneering Pet & Animal Law Firm for 20 + years. Conveniently Located in downtown Vancouver, Canada.
To make an Animal law appointment:
604. 891-0209 M-F, 8:30 – 5:30 p.m. Or Email: ShroffandAssociates@gmail.com
–
https://shroffanimallaw.com/
