Our pets are an important part of our everyday lives and they enrich us in so many ways. No matter what pet you may have — dog, cat, bird, horse, fish, rabbit — please make sure that you properly plan for their continued care in the event you should become incapacitated or pass away. They depend on you and they need you to look after their future.

Considering physical space, personal strength and financial resources, will a family member or friend be able to be the new pet caregiver? If so, have you had a conversation with them to cement the understanding? Does there need to be anything in writing?

You can also make arrangements in your will or trust to name a pet caretaker (and successors just in case), give directions to the pet caretaker, and possibly allocate some funds to care for the pet and perhaps allocate some money to the caretaker to thank them for taking on the position and spending time caring for your pet.

There’s lots of possibilities to consider, but please create a plan for the future care of your pets.

Article shared by Robert Triplett, an attorney with Family Security Law and a member of Moving Seniors Forward. The firm provides legal family security resulting in peace of mind through trusts, wills, durable powers of attorney, deeds and other essential documents. It also handle probates, trust administration, conservatorships, Medi-Cal planning, IRA Trusts and real estate transactions. Call 805-496-4681.