Roseville, CA –
Estate Planning for your Pet There comes a time in our lives when we must think of the family who will survive us, and for many of us, that includes pets. Those of us who cherish our pets as members of the family will do what it takes to make sure they are loved and cared for their entire lives. Between 3.5 and 4 million pets are relinquished to shelters in the US each year. It is estimated that more than 500,000 of these pets are surrendered as a result of pets outliving their human companions. |
Locally, Placer SPCA sees on average 4,000 animals arrive to our facility each year – some of which have been surrendered by family members who either are unwilling or incapable of caring for their loved one’s pet.
The simplest method to ensure your pet’s lifetime care is to ask a trusted friend or family member to care for your pet should you become incapacitated or when you pass away. If this is not an option for you then execution of a Will or Trust is recommended.
The California Probate Code §15212 allows for the creation of a Trust for the care of an animal.
If you do not need a Trust, provisions can also be made in your Will. Working with your attorney, you can plan for the best method to ensure that your pet will continue to have a quality life. In your planning, you need to include a provision naming the person(s) who will take responsibility for your pet(s) at your death or incapacity. If you wish to leave a fund for the payment of your pets care, a Trust is recommended. If you wish to create a solid document that will fulfill your intent with regard to the care of your pet upon your death or incapacity, it is recommended that you seek the counsel of an attorney that is familiar with drafting documents of this nature, and that understands your passion for your beloved furry (or feathery, scaly, etc.) family member.
The simplest method to ensure your pet’s lifetime care is to ask a trusted friend or family member to care for your pet should you become incapacitated or when you pass away. If this is not an option for you then execution of a Will or Trust is recommended.
The California Probate Code §15212 allows for the creation of a Trust for the care of an animal.
If you do not need a Trust, provisions can also be made in your Will. Working with your attorney, you can plan for the best method to ensure that your pet will continue to have a quality life. In your planning, you need to include a provision naming the person(s) who will take responsibility for your pet(s) at your death or incapacity. If you wish to leave a fund for the payment of your pets care, a Trust is recommended. If you wish to create a solid document that will fulfill your intent with regard to the care of your pet upon your death or incapacity, it is recommended that you seek the counsel of an attorney that is familiar with drafting documents of this nature, and that understands your passion for your beloved furry (or feathery, scaly, etc.) family member.
Often times, the question arises, “What happens if I don’t have a trusted friend or family member willing to care for my pet?” Placer SPCA offers a program, Surviving Pets, designed to help pet owners who are in this situation. We are happy to sit down with you to discuss your specific needs and determine the best course of action, whether it is utilizing our program or perhaps exploring other sanctuaries and lifetime care facilities.
Remember, providing for your pets doesn’t have to be complicated. But you do have to be sure to state your wishes specifically. If you wish to learn more about ensuring lifetime care of your pets, we encourage you to attend one of Placer SPCA’s complimentary workshops. Call 530-885-7387 ext. 102 or 916-782-7722 ext. 102 for more information. |