According to the Humane Society, 100,000 to 500,000 pets are placed in animal shelters when their owners pass away and around 60% end up being euthanized if a new home can’t be found. Verbal promises made by family or friends are no guarantee your beloved pets will not be surrendered to a kill shelter when you pass away. Providing for them in your Will is the best way to ensure they’re taken care of for the rest of their lives.
Designate Your Pet’s New Owner In Your Will
Though we may think of our pets as family members, under the law they’re considered tangible property much like a car or a vacation home. Though this legal description may sound cold, it enables you to leave your pets to someone you trust by simply naming their new owner in your Will. Also name a second person if your top choice predeceases you.
“Keep in mind, whether you set aside money in your Will, or use an Insurance Policy, your pet’s new owner is under no legal obligation to use the funds as you’ve instructed.”
To ensure your pet’s new owner has the funds necessary to care for them, you can leave a specific amount of money in your Will for that purpose. A Life Insurance policy is another option – though you can’t name your pet as the beneficiary, you can name the new owner you’ve chosen. Keep in mind, whether you set aside money in your Will, or use an Insurance Policy, your pet’s new owner is under no legal obligation to use the funds as you’ve instructed.
Create A Legally-Binding Pet Trust
A Pet Trust ensures that the person you choose is legally obligated to care for your pet. Under the law, they must follow your specific instructions and they’ll be held accountable for using the money exclusively for the care of your pet. You can name another person, or your executor, to enforce the terms of the Pet Trust. If your pet’s caretaker fails to fulfill their legal obligation, they can be sued in a court.
Other Options: Lifetime Care Sanctuaries & Rescue Groups
Years before his death, Michael Jackson arranged for the lifetime care of his pet chimpanzee, Bubbles, with the Center for Great Apes. To this day, his estate pays for Bubbles’ care at the organization’s Florida sanctuary. If you’re unable to find a trustworthy person to care for your pet, consider working with an established organization like Michael Jackson did for Bubbles. Another option is making a donation to a non-profit rescue group that agrees to place your pet in a foster home until a permanent home is found.
Before you make a final decision, discuss all of your options with your estate attorney.
Source: https://www.humanesociety.org/
