09 Mar Pets as Property
PVMA’s Position
The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) is dedicated to the advancement of animal welfare and we feel very strongly that animals are not property in the same way that tables, lamps, or cars are property. We further believe that owners should be allowed to prove that pet animals have economic values above their purchase price or fair market value. Because of current common law precedents, legislative changes most likely will be necessary to allow for expansion of these economic values. We further believe that an appropriate definition of a pet must be developed prior to any changes or expansions in the laws on damages for pet loss. In our search of PA law and the laws of other states, we have been unable to find an adequate definition for a “pet” or “companion animal” that would allow us to reach a consensus on the subject of pets as property. PVMA is developing a definition and welcomes comments from all interested parties.