Beyond the Leash: Creative Ways to Include Your Pets in Your Estate Plan
Planning for the care of your pets after your passing is an important but often overlooked aspect of estate planning. Your pets are members of your family, and like any family member, they deserve consideration in your plans. Here are some creative ways to include your pets in your estate planning:
Pet Trust
Although setting up a pet trust might sound overly formal, it’s one of the most secure ways to ensure your pet’s future well-being. You can specify not only who will care for your pet but also set aside funds for their care, outline the standard of living you expect for them, and even specify their medical treatments and dietary needs.
Pet Care Card
Similar to a medical ID card, a pet care card can be kept in your wallet. The card should contain all the essential information about your pet and emergency contact details for the person you've chosen to care for your pet.
Caregiver’s Manual
Compile a manual or guidebook for your pet’s caregiver, detailing everything from their favorite toys and foods to their medical history and veterinarian contact information. You can also include quirky habits or behaviors your pet may have that only you would know about.
Online Pet Profiles
Digital pet profiles can include pictures, medical records, and other pertinent details. You can then include instructions in your estate planning documents on how to access this digital information.
Video Will
A video will can complement your written documents, allowing you to verbally express your wishes concerning your pet’s future care. You can include footage of your pet and detail the specific type of care you want for them.
Memorial Funds
Some people opt to set up a memorial fund in their pet's name. This fund can be designated for animal charities, research, or shelters, as a way of paying forward the love and companionship they received from their pet.
Pet Legacy Letters
Write a letter or create a video message addressed to your pet’s future caregiver, sharing your wishes and sentiments about your pet. This can provide emotional guidance for the caregiver and may serve as a treasured keepsake.
Animal Care Panel
If you have multiple pets or animals that require specialized care, consider setting up an animal care panel. This panel would consist of several trusted individuals who are familiar with your animals and their needs. These people can help make decisions about the animals' care if the primary caregiver is unable to.
Social Media Account
If your pet has a social media following, you might want to consider who will manage those accounts when you’re gone. You can use these platforms to share updates about your pet, ensuring that friends and family can continue to enjoy their antics.
'In Case of Emergency' Stickers
Place stickers or signs on doors or windows to alert emergency personnel that pets are in your home. Include instructions in your estate planning documents about who should be contacted to care for them.
Annual Pet Celebration
To encourage a lasting bond between your pet and their future caregiver, consider instituting an annual celebration or get-together. Provide for this in your will, ensuring that your pet remains an integral part of extended family gatherings.
By taking the time to plan creatively for your pets in your estate planning, you’re providing them with the love and care they deserve, ensuring they’re looked after when you’re no longer able to do so yourself.
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Emily R. Taylor is an attorney licensed by the State Bar of Arizona. Emily Taylor practices in the areas of Special Needs Planning, Guardianships (and its alternatives), Estate Planning, and Special Needs Trusts. The office of Emily R. Taylor, Attorney PLLC is located in Phoenix, Arizona. Emily Taylor is available to consult on legal matters throughout the state of Arizona.
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