There’s one aspect of elder estate planning that almost nobody thinks about until it’s far too late, and that’s what will happen to pets that are left behind. Pets are living creatures who need care and shelter, and they do develop attachments to their owners. It’s important to address what will happen to pets after the owner passes away.

There are, fortunately, ways to ensure that your pet’s future is secure. You can make sure that your beloved companion is protected and taken care of when you pass away. Learn the steps you can take to secure your pet’s safety, how estate planning and pets are related, and how an attorney can help the process.

Estate Planning and Pets

According to the law, your pet is your property. Though you think of them as a trusted friend or member of your family, you’ll need to make sure that they are addressed in your estate planning process. There are three ways to do this: through your will, a pet trust, or a pet protection agreement.

Wills and Pets

Your will can outline your intentions for your pet, but it’s potentially the worst way to ensure your pet’s care and safety. It’s a myth that the demands you make in your will are legally enforceable. For example, while you can state that your daughter Sue will have ownership of your pet cat, you cannot include enforceable instructions for its care and feeding.

Pet Trusts

Pet trusts are a bit better than a will, as they provide specific protections for your dog, cat or other animal. They remain valid after your death, and allow you to leave money and assets behind specifically for the care of your pet. You can establish a pet guardian, a pet trustee and a pet investment trustee that will take care of the funds and ensure that the directives are followed. This is probably the most legally binding official document you can use to protect your four-legged friend.

Pet Protection Agreements

A pet protection agreement is an informal contract established between individuals establishing the means of caring for a pet if the owner becomes incapacitated. Such an agreement doesn’t necessarily require the services of a lawyer, but having the help of an attorney can make sure that you have everything you need. Since it’s a contract, it can be legally enforceable, but since it’s informal, it may not cover all the bases.

Estate Planning Attorneys

As you work with your estate planning attorney in Ohio, you’ll cover all the bases when it comes to your final planning needs. One of the best reasons to have a lawyer in your corner is to ensure that you don’t overlook something very important in planning, like making sure your pets are cared for.

Your pets are so important to you. Take the right steps to make sure they’re protected if you become incapacitated or pass away. The attorneys at Stano Law can help you with your estate planning and pets. Give us a call today to make sure your furry friends are well protected and cared for.