Estate Planning

Pet care plan

Pets are an important part of life for many people, and with the right planning, they can age in place with their elder human. When a pet is in the picture, you must come up with a plan of what to do if you can no longer care for your pet and if you die before your pet dies.

First, complete the following chart outlining the details anyone would need to know about your pet.

Pet's Name

Species

Breed

Breeder

Date of Birth

Date of Adoption

Microchipped

Veterinarian

Emergency Veterinarian

Annual Vaccinations

Known Health Issues

Allergy Medication

Mobile Groomer

Grooming Information

Type of Food

Additive

Daily Supplement

Treats

Special things my pet loves

Next, identify the person who will take over the care of your pet and a back-up.

• Share your pet’s information with the future caretakers.
• Discuss what you will provide financially, if anything, for that person to take care of your pet.
  • If you are alive, will you provide a regular amount of money to care for your pet? If so, discuss this with your future financial caretaker so they know this is a part of your budget. Write an agreement so this promise is not forgotten.
  • If you die, will the person taking over the care of your pet be given any financial consideration? Make certain you either provide these resources in your estate planning documents or make that person a beneficiary of a retirement plan or life insurance.
• Provide the names of the future caretakers to your veterinarian.
• Share the care provisions with all family members so everyone understands the plan for your pets.