Sometimes pets outlive their owners, which raises the question of who will care for the animal(s) after an individual is gone. According to the animal cremation experts at Char Mac Pet Cremation in Cincinnati, OH, this growing concern has led many people to set up pet trusts, legal arrangements outlining who will take ownership responsibilities of their pets when they pass away. Below, Cincinnati’s animal cremation specialists share more insight into pet trusts and why you should make these arrangements.

What Is a Pet Trust?  

Similar to setting up a trust for a minor, a pet trust is a legal agreement that ensures an animal will be financially and physically provided for when their guardian dies. The assigned caregiver receives regular payments to go towards the animal’s welfare. All 50 states have pet trust laws, but terms vary from place to place, so it’s best to consult a lawyer in your area to ensure the document includes all the necessary legal terminology. In Ohio, the trust is terminated upon the death of the last surviving animal covered by the agreement. 

Why Should You Create a Pet Trust?  

When a person dies, the future of their pets could be left up in the air. If there are no surviving family members, the animal could end up in a shelter. Setting up a pet trust will ensure you have control over the welfare of pets once you’re gone. By designated a specific individual to take ownership, you’ll know exactly how your animals will be treated. You can also have the person spend time with your pets to make the adjustment to the new home easier. The trust pays for the cost of routine medical examinations, treatments, food, and any other expenses associated with owning a pet. This means your pets will remain happy and healthy after you’re gone.

If you have recently lost a pet, or want to know more about trust laws to keep them protected, reach out to the staff at Char Mac Pet Cremation for assistance. The will provide animal cremation and burial facilities to help say goodbye to your four-legged companions, as well as engraved urns and other pet keepsakes to keep them close to you. To learn more about animal cremation and pet burial services available in Cincinnati, call (513) 851-5791. Visit the center online to discover the many ways they will help pay tribute to your furry family member.