Estate planning helps manage and distribute your assets after you pass away. However, you can also ensure your animal companions will continue receiving proper care. Below is more information about how you can protect your pets according to your wishes with this tool.

Why Should You Include Pets in Estate Plans?

If you don’t think about your pets’ provisions during estate planning, they may not have proper supplies and care. The courts could send them to a shelter, or to someone that you don’t approve of. Without specific stipulations in your estate plan, you cannot express your wishes or control what happens to your pets when you pass away or become incapacitated.

What Options Are Available for Pets?

Although you cannot leave your property or other assets to your pet, you can use your will to name a caretaker, as well as make monetary arrangements for that person.

You can also create an honorary trust for your pet since some states don’t have a trust statute for pets. Through an honorary trust, you can name a provider and include instructions for how to use the assets of the trust to care for your pet. Some expenses you can include are boarding and feeding costs, veterinary care, grooming, and burial arrangements. One advantage of a pet trust is that you can avoid probate, and your pet will benefit from the funds immediately. 

If you cannot find a trustworthy caretaker, you can entrust your pet to rescue organizations or private animal sanctuaries. Programs sponsored by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) or veterinary schools may also provide care for pets after their owner passes away.

If you want a flexible and easy arrangement, opt for an informal agreement outside of estate planning, where you ask a trusted friend or relative to take care of your pet. However, this offers the least protection since you don’t have control over your pet’s treatment.

When creating a comprehensive estate plan for you and your four-legged loved ones, trust the experienced legal team at Scott & Heenan LLC, in Platteville, WI. For more than 50 years, they have been proudly serving their clients and representing their best interests in estate planning, personal injury, criminal law, and boundary disputes. Call them today at (608) 348-9506 to schedule your free consultation, or visit their website to view a list of practice areas.