New Delhi, April 17 -- The Delhi High Court has held that the custody of animals cannot be treated on par with inanimate property, emphasising that the emotional bond between pets and their caregivers must be given due consideration while deciding such disputes.

The Court observed that, unlike objects, animals are sentient beings and develop strong emotional connections with those who care for them.

It noted that separating pets from their adoptive caregivers could cause significant emotional trauma to the animals, and such factors must be kept in mind while deciding custody issues.

In the present case, the dispute arose over three rescued pet dogs that were later adopted by the petitioners. While a trial court had earlier directed tha...