**PLEASE NOTE THAT WE DO NOT GET ANY MONEY DONATED HERE. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE, DO IT DIRECTLY ON OUR GoFundMe.**

I am writing this petition to bring attention to a pressing issue that affects countless beloved pets and their parents. Help me ensure that pets are no longer considered property like a chair or lamp and receive more protection under the law. 

My personal story: Tragically, my boyfriend passed away in November 2022, leaving my fur baby Rocco to an estate litigation. My late boyfriend's family claims that Rocco was his property and now belongs to them. Even though I've raised Rocco like my own, spent thousands on him, I am still subjected to a lawsuit regarding his ownership.

If you like, you can read our story published on CTV Toronto

I'm a public school teacher who has created a GoFundMe to help pay for the costs of the litigation. No donation is too small. 

**PLEASE NOTE THAT WE DO NOT GET ANY MONEY DONATED HERE. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DONATE, DO IT DIRECTLY ON OUR GOFUNDME.**

I would argue that Rocco has saved my life in more than one way after the passing of my boyfriend. No piece of property, even one worth a billion dollars, could have done that. 

I hope no one again has to argue that a pet is their property, like I am, due to current laws. Our pets deserve better.

Pets are not mere possessions; they are living beings capable of experiencing joy, pain, fear, love, and loss. Numerous scientific studies have shown that animals possess complex cognitive abilities similar to those found in humans. For instance:

1) A study published in Animal Cognition revealed that dogs exhibit empathy towards their owners when they are distressed. I have experienced this firsthand many times. Rocco does not leave my side on some very bad days, without me showing any physical signs of distress.
2) According to research conducted by Dr. Lori Marino at Emory University, dogs and dolphins display self-awareness and exhibit behaviors indicating higher-level thinking.
3) The Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness states that many non-human animals possess consciousness similar to human beings.

By recognizing pets' sentience legally and granting them appropriate rights:

1) We can ensure better protection against animal abuse or neglect.
2) We can promote responsible pet ownership by encouraging individuals to consider their pets' emotional well-being.
3) We can facilitate the creation of laws that prioritize the best interests of pets in cases like estate litigation, custody battles, or divorce proceedings.

Recognizing pets' sentience does not mean granting them human rights. Instead, it means acknowledging their unique needs and emotions and ensuring their best interests are considered first and foremost. 

Join me in urging lawmakers to take action!  SIGN AND SHARE THIS PETITION TODAY TO GIVE VOICE TO PETS WHO CANNOT ADVOCATE FOR THEMSELVES!

Thank you for your support,

Aliesha and Rocco