Custody
Pet
Mediation
When couples separate, the family pet is often the hardest thing to figure out.
Most people navigating divorce don't know how to reach a pet custody arrangement that actually works longterm — for themselves, or for their pets. That uncertainty is often costly: emotionally, financially, and for the pets caught in the middle.
I'm Karis Nafte — certified dog behaviour consultant, mediator, and author of Who Keeps the Dog, a reference guide used by lawyers and mediators across the USA, UK, and Australia.
I help divorcing couples reach pet custody agreements that are fair, practical, and sustainable for everyone involved, including your pet. Together, we will focus on your needs, the legal process, and what is in the genuine best interest of your dog, cat or parrot.
Pet custody mediation is voluntary, private, and reaches a written agreement — without the cost, conflict, or loss of control that comes with going to court.
I work online with clients across the USA, UK, Australia, and South Africa.
Book a free introductory chat— let's talk about your pet, your situation, and how I can help.
When mediation is not an option.
Every divorce is different, and mediation isn't the right fit for every couple. If your situation makes mediation difficult or impossible, I can still help. I offer guidance on the pet custody landscape, your available options, and practical next steps. Where appropriate, I also provide arbitration and expert witness services.
Endorsement by Patricia McConnell, author, PhD, CAAB Emeritus:
“Some of my most difficult consults have been about “who keeps the dog” when couples are separating. If only I’d had this thoughtful, practical, and compassionate book to hand my clients! Karis Nafte has all the skills needed to write this book—regarding canine behavior, the law, and as a practicing consultant. It’s the perfect addition to any consultant shelf, and for anyone facing difficult decisions about their beloved dog.”
Endorsement by Kenneth Cloke, Author The Magic in Mediation and Mediating Dangerously :
“Karis Nafte has written a unique, important, and highly useful book about a problem that is so common you would think dozens of books would have been written about it. As a divorce mediator, I have encountered many bitter disputes over pet custody, yet as a mediation trainer, I find it largely ignored – probably because Karis Nafte’s book had not yet been written.”
“I heard Karis speak on several excellent podcasts about who keeps the dog and this book is written with the same compassion and insight….”
“This book is phenomenal, Karis is the pet custody expert, and perhaps the only one. Her guidance is so valuable, and allows couples to truly understand what is best for their pet...”
“This book is an incredibly valuable resource written by someone who has deep insight into dog behaviour and human nature (especially in conflict)...”
