After your death, your last will and testament must undergo verification in court. Your executor will help this process along, ensuring that everything you wanted to happen will come to fruition in your absence.
This includes any special stipulations you may have included on behalf of your beloved pet. After all, your pet holds a special place in your heart and it is important to you that those carrying out your will understand exactly how crucial their continued care is to you.
Why do you need a pet trust?
The ASPCA discusses a pet trust as a legally binding arrangement. Many pet owners will turn to this in the event that they feel their loved ones and executor simply will not understand the importance of pet care after your death. Unfortunately, many people simply view pets as “lesser” than people in some ways, and some may even feel offended that you value your pet highly enough to include them in your will at all.
What can a pet trust protect?
A pet trust secures better care for your pet because it allows for you to set care standards, so your pet’s new guardian does not have free reign. Through a pet trust, you can set aside funds that will remain exclusively for the care of your pet, and the guardian cannot withdraw or use it for any other reason. You may also leave behind instructions on how to properly care for your pet in as much detail as you wish. You can provide identification to avoid fraud, as well as require regular inspections by a trustee.
In taking these steps, you can rest easy knowing that your pet’s health and future have an extra level of security.
