If Your Pet is Left Without You

A Plan Can Ease the Way

Our animal companions often leave the circle of life before we do, but this is not always the case. Pet owners do become ill, incapacitated, or may predecease their pets. Historically, most people have provided for pets through verbal agreements with family or friends. Robert Blizard, Humane Society Director of Donor Marketing and Outreach, advises pet owners to devise a formal written plan detailing your wishes for your pet's continued care. Initiating this process helps safeguard your pet's future and may save him/her from a less-than-optimal life in a shelter or a cage. Your veterinarian can be a tremendous resource in helping you decide the best course of action for your pet.

Animal General recommends that pet owners formulate a specific plan that takes into account your pet's needs and your desires. Give a copy of this plan to your veterinarian to keep in your pet's file, and include it in your will. When naming a trustee and/or caregiver, all parties, including your veterinarian, should have notarized papers detailing consent for those positions and the plans for your pet. Review the information included in the document on occasion, as pets' needs change with age.

Presently, a number of states, including New York and New Jersey, allow for specific provisions for pets within a will. The establishment of a trust is also now possible for domestic animals... What follows are some examples of the types of concerns about which you may wish to provide instruction.

• Food and diet
• Daily routine
• Toys
• Favorite games or activities
• Housing or sleeping requirements
• Cages: Yes or No? For what purpose?
• Personality traits or endearing qualities
• Fears
• Bad habits
• Grooming
• Socialization: What type and how often?
• Medical care, including preferred veterinarian

Read more suggestions, information about estate planning for your pet, Wild Bird Fund updates, and more in our Summer Newsletter