We consider pets as part of the family, so why should we not plan for them accordingly when creating an estate plan? In another blog post, we stated that one of the major estate planning mistakes people make is failing to include their pets in their estate plans. One of the initial questions we ask our clients is if they have pets. If they do, we try and incorporate their pets and their caretaking needs in our client’s estate planning documents.

While some may joke about planning for your pets, it is a part of the estate planning process that should not be ignored. If you fail to plan for your pets and their well-being after your passing, they might be sent to shelters or adoption agencies instead of continuing to live with family or friends. To avoid this, think of who you would like to continue taking care of your pets in the event that something should happen to you. Most clients also allocate a certain amount of funds to be given to that individual to pay for the care and expenses associated with the caretaking of your pet. Pet guardians, as they are sometimes referred to, also can receive specific instructions from you regarding dietary or life-style preferences. Some clients even want a separate pet trust created for their pets with significant amounts of money set to be distributed at different stages. California is one of the 47 states that currently recognizes the validity of such trusts. Kentucky, Louisiana and Minnesota are the only states that do not have laws authorizing pet trusts.

We also make sure that your pets are taken care of during your incapacity, and not just your death, by including provisions in your Power of Attorney documents. Such provisions would allow your designated agent to use your funds to continue taking care of your pet when you are not able to do so. One note we want to stress is this: you cannot request that your pet be euthanized simply because you have passed. If the animal is otherwise healthy, no veterinarian will perform the procedure. The only instance in which they will perform such a procedure is if your pet is suffering from a health condition or is very old.

We have worked with clients in great detail to ensure that their pets are well taken care of in the event that something was to happen. For some clients, we have even created formulas to determine how much money to give the pet guardian per year based on the pet’s life expectancy. Furthermore, it is recommended to include contact information for your pet’s veterinarian to help your successor trustees know how best to take care of your beloved four-legged family member. This is just one example of how personalized we strive to make your estate plan so that you can breath a real sigh of relief upon the execution of all of your documents. If you would like to get started, give us a call and schedule your complimentary consultation today.

Glendale Location

616 E. Glenoaks Boulevard, Suite 203

Glendale, CA 91207

Sherman Oaks Location

15303 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 900

Sherman Oaks, CA 91403