El régimen de tutela y la responsabilidad de cuidado para los animales de compañía como sujetos de derechos en relación al divorcio en Ecuador

Abstract

This research examines guardianship and caregiving responsibility for companion animals during divorce proceedings in our country. The goal is to analyze how the absence or lack of such provisions in Ecuadorian law violates the rights of companion animals when their caregivers’ marriages are dissolved. This study employs a qualitative methodology, using a legal-logical-deductive approach, analyzing concepts, doctrines, and both national and international regulations. It also adopts a comparative legal approach by examining international laws and regulatory experiences in countries like Spain, Portugal, and Argentina. According to the results, despite Ecuador’s notable progress in protecting animals, including companion animals, there remains much to be improved legally to promote animal welfare. Compared to other countries, Ecuador lacks specific regulations aimed at fully protecting companion animals during divorce proceedings. These regulatory gaps and shortcomings prevent the rights of companion animals to be protected or cared for from being realized, leading to a violation of their actual protection and welfare.