We've previously blogged on this topic here, and here, but planning for your pet's future care is a relative "hot" topic in estate planning circles. Specifically, if something should happen to you, who will take care of your pet? If your wishes are not specified, your pet could wind up in a shelter or have to be put down.
This article suggests a few steps that should be taken to ensure your pet will be taken care of after you are gone. They are:
1. Get a commitment. Find someone who is willing to become your pet's guardian. If you can't find someone, find a local "no kill" shelter or rescue organization to take in your pet;
2. Put it in writing. Seems fairly obvious, but draft an agreement to be signed by you and your pets future guardian. Share this agreement with friends, family, and your vet, so that everyone is on the same page;
3. Amend your power of attorney documents to make sure your attorney-in-fact can care for your pets if you are hospitalized or disabled, and can use your funds to pay for their care;
4. Create a pet dossier. Include information on what type of food they like, what medications they take, contact information for their vet, groomer, pet sitter, etc.;
5. Provide money for your pets. This will ensure that their future care needs are met. Specify where any remaining funds will go once your pet passes away.
As always, in order to make sure your pets are provided for after your gone, your first call should be to an experienced Michigan Estate Planning attorney, such as the attorneys at Barsch & Joswick, PLLC. Call today for a free consultation.
