Estate Planning for your Pet
Have you considered what will become of your faithful companion – your beloved pet – upon your death or disability? If you would like to create a plan that will quickly and easily provide for your pet’s food, shelter, and care, please keep reading.
Have you considered what will become of your faithful companion – your beloved pet – upon your death or disability? If you would like to create a plan that will quickly and easily provide for your pet’s food, shelter, and care, please keep reading.
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.The simplest method 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. 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. In a Trust you will name a Trustee who will be responsible for administering the trust assets for the remainder of your pet’s life, and a caretaker who will be responsible for the daily care of your pet. These can be the same person, but it may be best to name two different people to have a balance of authority in place. |
Keep in mind the following considerations:
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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,
I recommended 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.
I recommended 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.