I, for one, don't consider estate planning complete if I don't mention putting in a provision for pets.   If you don't make a provision for your pet, your pet may be on his or her way to the pound when you die.   I have adopted all my pets from the pound.  I know what happens after the funeral.  Take the time to include a pet provision in your Will that will protect your pet and feel certain that your pet will be cared for after you pass on.

The ASPCA recommends the following:

-Adequately identify your pets in order to prevent fraud. Consider getting photos of your pet, microchip identifications and DNA samples.

-Describe your pet’s standard of living and care in detail. That is, their nutritional needs, any health problems they have and the kind of home they are accustomed to living in.

-Require that the trustee ensures the caregiver is providing the pet with regular, thorough veterinary check-ups (i.e. twice annually).

-Determine the amount of cash or assets needed to adequately cover the expenses for your pet’s care. Generally, this amount cannot exceed what may reasonably be required given your pet’s standard of living. You should also specify how the funds should be distributed to the caregiver.

-Determine the amount of cash or assets needed to adequately cover the expenses of administering the pet trust. This would cover fees accrued by the trustee and possible attorney consultations, for example.

-Choose a beneficiary who will receive any remaining funds that were not used by the pet trust.

-Provide directions for your pet’s burial or cremation.

I cannot imagine peace of mind without a provision in my Will that provides for the needs of my pets.  I imagine that many of you believe like I do.  I am always prepared to include a pet provision in a will or trust for the benefit of your loved companions.  Let me know if you have a need for a pet trust. 

A pet trust is a provision in a Will that provides for a specific person to care for your pet or pets for their lifetime using money you have set aside for that use.  Once your pet passes on, the money set aside for the pet then passes on to another beneficiary--maybe a relative, may be a charity such as ASPCA or Animal Rescue League.  You should take the time to consider such a provision.  And, maybe, if you have not prepared a Will or any other estate planning documents for yourself and your family, then this is the time to prepare and make sure that your cherished pet is cared for after you are gone.