Estate Planning for Your Pets

March 20, 2019

Creating an estate plan for your beloved companion animals may ensure they receive a continuing, high level of care should they outlive you, or you become unable to provide proper care. It also could keep them out of a shelter, which is where many pets end up when their owners die without a plan in place.

Some people include instructions for care of their pets in a Power of Attorney, Trust or Will, while others have informal arrangements with friends and family.

estate planning for pets

Our kitty brothers, Dusty & Grayson

1. Designate your choice of pet caregivers. Talk to friends and family about who could adopt your animals, or who will be responsible to provide even temporary care and find new homes for your pets. Keep this information where it may be easily found in an emergency. Stay in touch with those on your list to update it as circumstances may change for them. A backup option may be a local rescue organization- do your homework and find the one you prefer ahead of time to include on your list.

2. Outline a Care Plan. Also make available information about your veterinarian and the health records for your furry and feathered companions. Include notes about each pet’s likes and dislikes, personality traits, favorite foods and treats, daily routine and diet. By writing down clear, detailed instructions on how to care for the pet, owners make it easier for future caregivers to abide by your wishes. Include contact information for the day and boarding care you have used. Minimizing changes can lessen the trauma for animals experiencing the loss of their owner.

3. Provide a source of financial support. As we all know, it can be expensive to care for a dog, cat, or other pets (large or small). Creating a special fund, or a gift of cash, could make the difference between a friend adopting your pet, or having to decline due to financial constraints. Add up projected annual expenses for veterinary care, as well as medications, monthly grooming, food, toys and a contingency for unanticipated expenses. Multiply the annual total by the average life expectancy for the breed- it could be $20,000 or more for lifetime care. The next step is determining how those funds should be set aside. Options include a trust, a separate bank account or life insurance. While the pet cannot be the named beneficiary of a Trust or life-insurance policy, a Trustee may be directed to use the funds for care of your pets.

4. Pet Trusts. California Probate Code section 15212 governs Pet Trusts, which may be created in your personal Trust or Will, or established as a stand-alone Trust, to hold funds for care of your pets. You will need to designate a succession of Trustees. Also you may state where any remaining unused funds should be distributed when the lives of all covered pets are complete. Click here  and here: for more information.

planning for your pets

Our Colorado grand-dog, Sputnik

Just remember that even the best planning cannot replace the love and care that you provide. As the caretakers for our trusted companions, you owe it to your “fur babies” to give them the best possible future filled with love, happiness and safety.

To discuss your planning options, please contact our office.

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