Key Takeaways:
– Former Hallmark couple Victor Webster and Shantel VanSanten finalized their divorce on July 1, 2024.
– The pet custody agreement stipulates strict conditions and financial penalties for returning their dog Nova late.
– The couple’s cats, Finnegan and Phillippa, are to be cared for by Webster’s brother, Vince.
– Fans showed varied reactions on social media towards the pet custody rulings.
– The couple will also split the proceeds from their two homes with an additional payment by VanSanten to “equalize the split”.
In a lengthy and complex negotiation, former Hallmark lovebirds Victor Webster and Shantel VanSanten have stated in their July 1, 2024 divorce decree, that no party will pay for spousal support. Instead, they made headlines with the unique terms of pet custody included in their settlement.
Story of Nova and the Fee
In the pet custody arrangement, Webster has been awarded sole ownership of their dog, Nova. However, VanSanten has retained rights to care for Nova for “reasonable periods”. Her responsibility extends to updating Webster about the dog’s location and any changes in schedule.
An unusual clause in this agreement raises eyebrows. A delay in Nova’s return beyond 72 hours, results in a $10,000 per day fine on VanSanten. This significant sum is also charged if VanSanten’s time with Nova exceeds three weeks.
Finnegan and Phillippa’s New Home
Meanwhile, the custody of the cats, Finnegan and Phillippa, has been granted to Webster’s brother, Vince. This arrangement comes with a yearly payment of $750 per cat by VanSanten to Vince. However, if Vince becomes unable to provide care, VanSanten receives the custody of the cats.
Social Media Reaction
While the couple did not publically address the specifics, they did subtly hint at their post-divorce mindset through social media posts on the day the ruling was announced. Fans reacted differently to the rulings, especially the hefty fine. Some were taken aback by the hefty daily penalty while others expressed support for the care and consideration given to the pets.
Webster, noted for his role in “Hannan Swensen Mysteries,” celebrated getting Nova’s custody with an Instagram post expressing love for his “adventure buddy.” The dog-loving actor often shares escapades of him and Nova exploring nature together.
Dividing Properties and Moving Forward
Alongside the intricate pet custody scenario, Webster and VanSanten have agreed to split the sale proceeds of their residences in Los Angeles, and Spicewood, Texas. An additional payment by VanSanten is required to “equalize the split”.
VanSanten now fully owns a property in rural New York she bought in 2022. As both parties are healthy and financially stable, they’ve agreed to not pay spousal support to each other.
Aside from the sizeable roles in Hallmark, VanSanten has moved to CBS’ “FBI” franchise and continues with her part in AppleTV+’s “For All Mankind”. Meanwhile, Webster has become a fan-favorite in the Hallmark network, from roles on “Summer Villa” to “Chesapeake Shores”.
The former couple, known for their roles in Hallmark’s “Love Blossoms,” have navigated their divorce and life beyond with an unusual pet custody settlement. It has certainly provided food for thought for fans and pet lovers worldwide.