Domestic pets outnumbered children in the United States by four to one, according to 2013 research. Almost half of Canadians possess at least one pet, while 45% of individuals in the United Kingdom have a furry or scaled or feathered companion at home.
There are many family pet owners worldwide, and many of us consider our pets to be members of our families. Why not include our pets in our estate plans? We have them in our travel and day-to-day activities, so why not include them in our estate plans?
How to Care for a Pet While Making Estate Plans
There are a few different ways to include your pet in your estate plans, and which one you choose is entirely up to you. Whatever option you choose, make sure to discuss your preferences with your chosen caregiver and confirm that they are willing to care for your family pet if you die.
Although you cannot legally leave your pets cash or residential or commercial property, you can care for them in other ways. Alternatively, you may enroll your pet in a wellness plan. Numerous services provide this, allowing you to care for your pet on an economical basis. For additional information regarding wellness plans, visit websites such as CentralValleyAnimalHospital.com.
Testaments
Your first option is to include your pet and their caretaker in your will. To do so, choose a pet guardian and decide how much money you want to set away for your companion’s upkeep and maintenance. If you do not already have a clinic, you should start looking for one so that your new caretaker does not have to. There are many facilities available, but it is important to find a reputable vet Rainbow City AL to alleviate your concerns.
Trust Account
The second and safest method is to include your pet in your Trust account. You can name a caretaker and a specific care strategy in your Trust.
You can specify how much you want to leave them for family pet care, how you want them to care for your pet, and even appoint an agent to enforce your wishes in court if your caretaker does not comply.
Why should my pets be considered in my will?
Including your pets in your estate plan ensures that they will be cared for after you pass away. Suppose the pets do not go to someone they know and Trust (such as the owner’s loved ones). In that case, it may be difficult for your family pet that has recently lost its owner and has become accustomed to a particular way of life since they will wind up in a shelter if you do not have estate preparations for them.
Why is living in a shelter so stressful for your pet?
Shelters may be able to care for your pet while they search for a suitable home. Rehoming pets accustomed to living in specific circumstances (such as being the only pets or not being around children) can be difficult. Your pet could end up spending a long time in a shelter waiting for the right family. It also increases the number of animals in a shelter, causing a blockage that restricts space for abandoned or abused animals.
Including your pets in your preparations ensures that they will be cared for in the event of an emergency. Choosing a guardian and discussing your pet’s needs and preferences ensures that Mittens or Barkley will continue to receive late-night feedings. You can also register them with a pet boarding facility. This is preferable to your pet trying to adjust to its new life than at a shelter with too many other animals, check their boarding page for additional information.
Last Thoughts
We must respect our family pets as members of our household. If something happens to you, planning for your family pet’s entire life is a terrific way to ensure that they receive the care, love, and dedication they require. We incorporate our pets in almost every aspect of our lives, so it only makes sense to plan for their futures while we prepare for our own.
