Estate Planning for Pets

A pet trust allows you to specify a reasonable amount of money to be set aside for pet care upon your death or incapacity. The funds may be used as you direct. A pet trust also allows you to direct any remaining funds upon termination of the trust to one or more persons or charities. 

If you do not have a pet trust, your legal representatives are not permitted to direct money for pet care unless the beneficiaries of your estate consent. Without such consent, you must rely solely on the generosity of friends or family to provide care for your pets.

A pet trust also allows you to designate a pet caregiver. A second person may be appointed as an alternate. The trust may specify the caregiver's duties.

Funds from your pet trust may be used to provide for cremation or burial services for your pets as you direct.

A pet trust allows you designate a person to ensure that the terms of the trust are being carried out in good faith. If necessary, this person may petition a probate court to enforce the terms of the trust.