Do I Need a Pet Trust?

What Happens If Your Death Precedes Your Pet’s Death?

Death. This topic is not one which many of us give much thought to. I mean, who wants to think passing away? However,  it is a topic that which needs to be discussed and you should be planning what would happen to your pets should you pass away. Most of us think of our pets as part of the family, however the courts still consider our pets as property. This means that if you pass away your pets fate is decided by the courts. So, to avoid this or any stress, fighting amongst remaining family and uncertainty for your pet,  it is best to set up some legal paperwork and estate planning right now. Put your wishes for your pets care and comfort into a Pet Trust. This is an extremely important step that you can take to ensure your pet will be taken care of should your death precede theirs.

One of the best ways you can secure your pets future if you pass away is with what is called a “Pet Trust”. This is an extremely flexible way to set your desires in stone, so to speak.

How does it work? What are the pros?

• A pet trust is a valid legal document which acts during your life as well as after.
• It allows you to establish total control of the financial disbursements.
• It allows you to assign someone to manage the investment health of the trust. This person can invest the funds to allow the principal to grow.
• And a most important aspect of this trust is it allows protection to be established should you become incapacitated. If you need to move into a nursing home or long term care facility, your trust can be set up to allow your precious pet to come with you or be taken care of in the manner in which he is accustomed.

Don’t wait. Consult an estate planner, research the legal benefits and set up a trust today.