Estate Planning Attorney

A pet is like a member of your family, so you want it to always be looked after, even after your death. That’s why it so important to remember to include your pet in your will. If something should happen to you unexpectedly, you know that your furry family member will be in good hands. Otherwise, your pet could go to a shelter. Here are some tips for including your pet in your will.

Include Funds for Your Pet

Pets aren’t exactly inexpensive to care for. They require food, shampoo, flea treatments, toys, food bowls, medications and other necessities. Pets also have to go to the veterinarian regularly for checkups and various treatments. It’s essential to leave enough money in your will for your pet to be taken care of its entire lifetime. You will feel much better if you know your pets will have their necessities taken care after you’re gone.

Appoint a Caregiver

The next step you must take is appoint a responsible and trustworthy caregiver for your pet. This person should truly like animals and have enough time to give your pet the care it deserves. Before you appoint a caregiver in your will, you should sit down with them and ask them if they even want to take on the role. It’s possible that the person you want to take care of your pet might have a busy career and not have the time to do the job. If this is the case, you need to look for other options.

Explain Special Instructions for Your Pet

If your pet has special needs or has to be taken care of in a certain way, you should detailed instructions on what to do in your will. For example, if your pet has heart disease, include the medications it needs to take every day and the type of activities it needs to avoid. If your pet has food allergies, list the types of food it is allowed to eat. Including these types of instructions will make things easier on both your pet and the caregiver.

List a Non-Kill Shelter or Foster Program

If you don’t have someone in your life who can realistically take care of your pet after you die, it may be in your best interest to specify a non-kill shelter or foster program your pet can go to.

Think About Establishing a Trust

A trust is more costly to establish than a will, but it may be worth it. A trust doesn’t have to go through a probate process and the funds for your pets can be dispersed right away. A trust can also be used in cases of illnesses. If you fall really ill, you can designate who you want to look over your pet.

If you follow these tips, you can establish a valid will for your pet. If you have any further questions, consult with an estate planning attorney St. Peters, MO offers.

Thanks to Legacy Law Center for their insight into estate planning and including your pet in your will.