As reported in the Chicago Tribune a spousal split can lead to a contentious custody fight over four-legged fur babies.

According to a new state law effective Jan. 1, judges in divorce proceedings can consider the well-being of companion animals in allocating sole or joint ownership.

“It sort of starts treating your animal more like children” instead of property, said Illinois state Sen. Linda Holmes, D-Aurora, who sponsored the legislation and is a self-proclaimed animal lover. “If you’re going before a judge, they’re allowed to take the best interest of the animal into consideration.”

The law, similar to one in Alaska, applies only to pets that are marital assets, not service animals.

Pets are another issue to hash out in a divorce, in addition to money, children and possessions. For years, pets have been treated no differently than other pieces of property to be divvied up between the couple.

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