Some trends in animal law

. Thousands of local ordinances, state statutes and federal laws address animals and their relationships to humans.

. Many companion animals are covered by health and life insurance policies.

. Shared custody, with specific visitation schedules, of companion animals are becoming more common in divorce cases.

. The number of trusts created for pets so they can be cared for after their owners die is on the rise.

. Federal and state emergency management groups have provided for rescue and care of pets in disaster plans.

. About 20 bar associations have committees or sections devoted to animal law.

. More than 80 law schools offer courses in animal law.

Source: Meris Bickford, Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals.