California pet lovers who want to create a responsible plan for their animals may want to consider the creation of a pet trust. This can be an excellent way to ensure that your animal is cared for long after you’re gone, or in the event that you become medically incapacitated and are no longer able to tend to your pet’s needs without assistance.
The principal reasons why people create a pet trust is to (1) indicate who will care for their pets (2) provide financial assistance to cover the expenses related to the care of those pets and (3) give clear guidelines about how to care for the animal relating to snacks, veterinary visits, walks and end-of-life arrangements.
Here are a few more things you should know about a pet trust:
- You can give extremely specific instructions in the pet trust regarding how your pet will be cared for.
- You can provide guidelines for checking in with the pet’s caretaker to ensure your plan is being followed.
- Your pet trust activates immediately after you die.
- Your pet trust can withstand being challenged in court.
- Your pet trust can create a plan for your pet accompanying you if you have to go to a long-term care facility.
Are you considering a rock-solid estate plan for your beloved animal that will protect your pet’s best interests after you’re gone? Your pet is your family — and it’s important to provide for your pet if you should pass away. A pet trust could be a great solution to your estate planning needs. Our law office is available to discuss with you whether a pet trust can benefit you or your family.
