For many people, pets are considered to be members of the family. When people near the end of their life, they want to make sure their pets will be taken care of and continue to be loved. Because of this, California law understands that people may wish to make plans for their pets, just as any other family member, in the event of their death. In the state of California, people are permitted by law to create a trust for the care and maintenance of their pets. This can help an individual protect their pet once they are gone. In doing this, it is important to contact an experienced attorney to guide you through the process.
How To Create a Pet Trust
When a pet trust is created, it ensures they can be looked after when their owner’s life is over. With this, they can avoid going to a shelter and live with a loved one instead. Owners know their pets best, and they can pass along this information to a loved one so that they will be aware of the pet’s personality and the best way to take care of them.
A pet trust can be created in the form of a will, as part of a revocable living trust, or a stand-alone trust. When this is created, the terms can be personalized for the pet just as they would be for any other beneficiary. This information can be broad or specific. In creating this plan, it is important to name a trustee. This person does not necessarily have to be the same as the caregiver for the pet. These plans have the option to be modified should the owner wish to name the caregiver as the trustee or name another person entirely throughout their life.
What Details are Necessary for the Trust?
In creating a trust, it can be beneficial to give detailed, specific directions for the caregiver. As their owner, the individual knows what is best for them and what they need. These are things that the caregiver should be aware of when taking over the responsibility of being their new owner. This information can include the foods the pet likes or dislikes, the veterinarian they typically visit, any medications the pet is taking, and more. They should also be aware of any plans for when the animal passes as well. This may include alotted funds as well as burial or cremation plans. Having this information ensures the deceased’s pet will be taken care of exactly the way they would have themselves.
Contact our Firm
Working with an experienced estate planning attorney, such as Jaci Feldman of the Woodland Hills, California, Law Office of Yacoba Ann Feldman, will ensure that you are taken care of when you need it most. Contact The Law Offices of Yacoba Ann Feldman to schedule a consultation today.
