Many people think about their assets and children when they’re coming up with an estate plan. This leaves a very important member of the family out of the equation: Your pets. Making sure that your pets are taken care of if something happens to you has to be a priority.
Failing to plan for your pet means that they could end up having to go to a shelter or something even worse. There are several things that you can do to help prevent this from happening.
Who will take care of your pets when you’re gone?
Talk to your friends and family members to find out who will be able to provide care for your pets in the way you want them to be cared for. You should discuss things like where the pets will live and what type of care they’ll receive. For example, a house cat will need a home where they can live inside because they may not be able to survive as an outdoor cat.
Can you provide financial support for your pets?
Caring for pets properly can be costly. Consider leaving assets for your pet’s care. This is accomplished through the use of a special trust. You can also discuss other options with your attorney to find out what’s possible.
What special instructions do you have for the pet’s care?
Any instructions you have for your pet should be written out. This might include what type of food the pet will eat and where the pet will get care. It might also help for you to outline any special needs the pet has, such as care for medical conditions.
If you’re ready to get the plan for your pets in writing, work closely with your attorney. It’s imperative that you include all your wishes in the estate plan. Of course, planning for your pets is only one of the components of your estate plan. An attorney can help you complete a plan that fully meets your needs.