Brooklyn Judge Rules Pet Dogs are Family Members

A Brooklyn Supreme Court judge, Aaron Maslow, has ruled that dogs can be legally recognized as “immediate family” in specific wrongful-death cases. The decision stemmed from a 2023 incident where Duke, a four-year-old dachshund, was struck and killed by a car while being walked by Nan DeBlase. Since Nan was physically holding Duke’s leash at the time, the court deemed her within the “zone of danger,” qualifying her for emotional distress damages typically reserved for human family members.

Justice Maslow noted that societal views are evolving—pets are more than property, and the legal system should reflect this change. However, the ruling is narrow, applying only to leashed dogs involved in traffic incidents where the handler is endangered. Duke’s owner Trevor, who was not present, is limited to recovering the dog’s market value and Veterinary costs. Advocates hailed the decision as a legal milestone, recognizing the deep emotional bonds between people and their pets.