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One Last Chance HOW WE GIVE HOMELESS PETS A SHOT AT LIFE
None of us can solve all the world’s problems independently, but we can each do our part to make a difference. At Bruce Law Firm, we try to help people create better lives by breaking free from narcissistic, manipulative, and controlling spouses. But we’re also passionate about helping the voiceless — the animal friends in our community. Ashley first developed a passion for animals in high school when she volunteered at Broward County’s animal services division in Pompano Beach. She dedicated herself to cleaning cages, walking dogs, soothing frightened cats, and assisting in any way she could. But sadly, there weren’t nearly enough adopters for all the homeless pets, and the county euthanized more than they sent to forever homes. It’s so sad because, unlike humans, animals can’t easily help themselves out of a bad situation. The experience left a permanent impact on Ashley. Ideally, our society would change spay and neuter laws and ban puppy mills, but we’re lawyers, not lawmakers. So, we focus on what we can do to help. We now have a cat colony on our 1-acre property filled with sterilized and vaccinated felines. Unfortunately, many people leave their unwanted pets at the shelter, but we try to save as many as we can from euthanasia at the shelter. Palm Beach Animal Care and Control only has so many resources, so they focus on the animals most likely to be adopted. The cats that live in our colony were deemed unadoptable or feral. Many were “last-call” cats. In other words, the county would euthanize them if someone didn’t take them by a deadline. When Christopher hears Ashley say, “We’ll take them,” to the rescue group, he rolls his eyes. He knows she cannot help herself or say no to a last-call kitty. It’s just another bag of Meow Mix to us — a small price to pay to save a cat’s life. Most of the so-called feral cats we’ve adopted are total sweethearts. They were just afraid. After some time away from an unfamiliar and frightening place, they gradually stop hissing and growling. They begin to trust, heal, and adapt to their new lives. A bit of time to rest, get comfortable, and develop a new perspective can completely change someone, human or animal.
Our cat colony
Fortunately, we aren’t at the mercy of guardians. People can help themselves and can escape even the worst situations. We have the power to rescue ourselves, and we watch our clients do it every day. The attorneys at Bruce Law Firm play a supporting role in their lives; our clients do the hardest part by committing themselves to change and happiness. And much like our cats, they often come out the other side more vibrant than ever. We always want to help where we can. Since cats can’t open their own cages and decide to leave, we give them a chance. It’s not the life of a pampered indoor cat, but it’s a life nonetheless, and they seem grateful to have it. Animals play an essential role in our lives; roughly 70% of American households have at least one pet. The first week of May is National Pet Week, and we’ve celebrated it by creating an entire newsletter dedicated to the animals we love. We hope you enjoy this special pet-themed edition.
–Ashley and Chris Bruce
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When Pets Are Property
bruce law pets
Jack and Henry
Divorce and Your Furry Family Members
Most people think of pets as family members, so determining what to do with them during a divorce can be an emotionally difficult process. But while deciding who gets to keep the dog or cat might be agonizing, Florida law considers pets property. So, the courts will treat “custody” of your pet similar to how they’d handle the ownership of a refrigerator. Florida briefly tried time-sharing for pets in the 1990s, but a higher court abandoned the idea due to a backlog of more essential child custody cases. A small percentage of divorcing couples arrange their own time-sharing agreements, but they often lead to problems, and we don’t recommend them. That means only one household can keep the pet. Sometimes, the decision is simple. One spouse may be uninterested and happily part with the family pet. But unfortunately, disagreements can quickly escalate. Some spouses also use the family animal as leverage to receive more of the couple’s assets. Many people feel compelled to take the matter to court, but a judge is unlikely to heed your emotional plea. As property, pets are subject to the equitable distribution process. With numerous items likely in dispute, judges do not linger on your animal assets — instead, they often make quick decisions about these matters. Most property divisions in divorce cases revolve around value, but most pets aren’t worth much on the open market. So, courts consider other practical matters, like who has cared for the pet and who can care for it in the future. That said, there is no “best interest of the pet” standard like there is with children. Due to the unpredictable nature of the court’s decision on pets, those who feel very strongly about keeping theirs are generally best served by resolving the issue in mediation. Some choose to trade sufficient financial assets to retain ownership of a beloved pet. An attorney can provide guidance in this matter, but how much emotional value a pet holds is ultimately up to each individual. Your pet’s fate is only one of many complicated matters that can arise during a divorce, but the experienced attorneys at the Bruce Law Firm are here to guide you through everything. Call us if you have questions or concerns about what might happen to your beloved animal family member(s). We’ll fight hard for your desired outcome.
Cupcake Bruce
Liana and Dexter
Diana and Salem
Ashley and furbabies
Is your friend or client married to a controlling, manipulative, narcissistic husband?
Eduardo and Tana
OUR BOOKS CAN HELP!
The book can be downloaded for FREE at DivorceInformationBooks.com.
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–Ashley and Chris Bruce
A Kid’s Best Friend The Benefits of Childhood Pets
Most people who were raised with pets remember the experience fondly. But deciding whether to replicate that experience for your own kids isn’t always straightforward. Pets are a big responsibility, and many parents worry about the time commitment or even their children’s safety. Fortunately for animals, science has shown multiple benefits to having pets during childhood — some of which might surprise you. Compassion We all want to raise kind children who care about others, and the lessons that come from taking care of an animal can teach kids empathy. Children with pets learn that animals have feelings. It’s also a great opportunity to help kids practice showing
evidence and studies indicate that children with pets have stronger immune systems and can fight off colds and the flu more easily. In addition to that, having an energetic pet to run around with can help keep kids active and healthy. Responsibility Having your child take an age-appropriate part in caring for a pet is a time-honored tradition for a reason. Kids are more likely to be enthusiastic about brushing, walking, or feeding a pet than other household chores because it allows them to spend time with a friend. Younger kids will still need gentle reminders and help with time management, but they’ll learn essential life skills in the process. Companionship We view pets as friends and family members for a reason. Their unconditional love can help children and adults alike through the most challenging times. If you’ve ever cuddled with a pet during your worst moments, you know what invaluable comfort they can provide. Some studies even suggest that children who have pets are less anxious and withdrawn since animals can lower levels of loneliness for their owners.
kindness to those who are more vulnerable than them. Having a pet really does encourage nurturing behaviors in children, which will likely serve them well later in life. Health Did you know that having a pet in early childhood may decrease a person’s chance of developing allergies later? Mounting
Welcoming a four-legged friend into your home is a very personal decision, and every family must weigh their circumstances before committing. But kids are
usually grateful when their family takes the plunge, and the benefits can last a lifetime.
Salmon Croquettes With Dill Sauce
Inspired by Epicurious.com
Ingredients
•
1 1/2 cups plain yogurt or fat-free sour cream
• • • • •
1 large white onion, finely chopped
4 large eggs, beaten
• • • •
1/4 cup Dijon mustard 6 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
1/2 tbsp salt 1 tbsp pepper 2 tbsp olive oil
2 14.75-oz cans salmon packed in water
4 celery stalks, finely chopped
Directions
1. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, Dijon mustard, and dill to make the dill sauce. Set aside. 2. Drain the salmon, then remove and discard the bones and skin. In a large bowl, mix the salmon, celery, onion, eggs, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 8 patties. Coat a medium skillet with olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. 3. Put a dollop of the dill sauce on top of each patty and serve.
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Our Cat Colony Creates Second Chances page 1 What Happens to Pets During a Divorce? page 2 Why Pets Are Good for Children Salmon Croquettes With Dill Sauce page 3
How Children Benefit From Playing an Instrument page 4 The Instruments for Success
What are your children’s favorite activities when looking for something to do? Some might prefer reading, while others like to draw, write, or play with friends. While all of these will benefit your children, an activity that is often overlooked is playing musical instruments. Many kids get their first taste of music when they enter middle school and show interest in playing in a band or orchestra. But you don’t have to wait until your child is in school to get them started with music! Starting at age 4, your child will be in the perfect state to begin learning how to play, and you’ll quickly notice the benefits they gain, such as these three. Improved Patience Learning to play an instrument for the first time is not easy. Developing the skills necessary to play takes time, effort, and practice. This process can sometimes be frustrating, but with effort and persistence, children can gradually improve their skills and master complex pieces. Likewise, if children play in a group, they may have to wait their
turn to play their part in a song, which also helps them develop focusing skills and patience.
HOW LEARNING TO PLAY MUSIC BENEFITS CHILDREN
Proper Responsibility and Time Management Musical instruments are costly and require
maintenance to ensure they stay in good condition. By entrusting your child with an instrument, you’re giving them the responsibility of taking care of it. Teach them how to clean their instrument and store it properly. Additionally, they’ll have to learn how to follow a practice schedule, which teaches time management skills and how to avoid procrastination. Enhanced Self-Esteem Learning to play a new song or chord can make any music student proud! They accomplished something they set their mind to, making them feel more confident about themselves and fostering a desire to keep improving. As they continue playing, their confidence and self-esteem will bloom. This will also give them an outlet for their creative endeavors, which will help them be more comfortable with who they are.
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