Pets receiving an inheritance! It may sound extreme, but planning for your pet’s future is not about money, it is about security for both of you. Just as responsible parents plan in advance to appoint a guardian to care for their children, responsible pet owners need to plan in advance for their pets. If you are a pet owner, you should have two plans in place:
1) If you are unable to properly care for your pet due to an illness or other incapacity
2) If you are unable to properly care for your pet due to your death.
According to ASPCA, approximately 62% of households in the United States have at least one pet. Yet, only 17% of pet owners have taken legal steps for their pet’s protection. There are some very easy and cost-effective options which you can take advantage of now. Don’t delay, your pets are counting on you!
Option 1 (Every pet owner must do this):
Carry a Pet Identification Card with you at all times. This can either be a physical card that you carry in your wallet or purse, or additional information contained in your I.C.E. (In case of Emergency) contact on your cell phone. The information on the Pet Identification Card should include:
a) a picture of your pet
b) the pet’s name
c) the location of the pet
d) any special needs of your pet
e) who to contact to take care of the pet. This card can advise a police officer or other emergency personnel that you have a pet that also needs assistance.
+KCMarieKnox
Los Angeles Estate Planning Attorneys 