We all love our animals – and to many of us they are really our Furr-babies! A family pet can be as important to many people as a child. Therefore, it is important to think of them in your estate planning as well. Who will take care of your baby when you are gone? Sometimes it is simply enough to choose the person who will take over your pet and keep them upon your death. It is advisable at a minimum to place a sentence in your will bequeathing your pet(s) to a specific loving home.
Sadly, pets can often bear the brunt of disgruntled family members and get caught in the cross-fire if it is not clearly spelled out in your will.
Does your pet have special medical needs that will add cost to the person maintaining your pet? Or is your pet likely to outlive multiple persons? Some pets, such as parrots or tortoises can live for 65 years or more. In such instances a pet trust can be created that maintains the pet and expenses for his or her medical needs – or passes the pet to an alternative person should the pet outlive his new owner.
If you would like to discuss estate planning for your pet, please call the our office to schedule an appointment with CiCi.
