The measure, approved by lawmakers on Tuesday, is viewed as reflecting the importance Brazilians place on their pets.

The new law stipulates that if a couple separates without reaching an agreement regarding their pet, “a judge will determine the shared custody arrangement and the equitable distribution of the animal’s maintenance expenses between the parties,” according to the text of the law.

To qualify, the animal must have spent the majority of its life with the couple. Shared custody will not be granted in cases of prior criminal records or a history or risk of domestic violence.

Lawmakers pointed to an increase in pet custody disputes in courts, but also said the law responds to “changes that have occurred in Brazilian society in recent decades,” according to a statement accompanying the law.

Couples with fewer children tend to have closer relationships with their animals, “often considered true family members,” it said.

The country of 213 million people has some 160 million pets, mostly dogs, according to the Instituto Pet Brasil.