May is National Pet Month, a time to honor the joy and companionship our furry (or feathered or scaly!) friends bring to our lives. Whether your pet is a loyal golden retriever, a chatty parrot, or a beloved rescue cat, they’re more than just animals, they’re family. As we take extra time this month to appreciate them, it’s also the perfect moment to think about their future, especially in the event that you’re no longer able to care for them.

One of the most thoughtful ways to show love for your pet is by including them in your estate plan. While we often think of estate planning as something that only affects human beneficiaries, your pet’s well-being depends entirely on your preparation.

Many pet owners assume that a friend or family member will step in if something happens, but without legal documentation, that outcome isn’t guaranteed. Sadly, thousands of pets are surrendered to shelters each year because their owners have passed away or become incapacitated without making a clear plan for their care.

Estate planning ensures your pet is protected, both in terms of who will care for them and how that care will be funded.

A Pet Trust is one of the most effective tools for ensuring your pet is provided for. It allows you to set aside funds for your pet’s care and designate a caregiver, along with a trustee to manage the money. You can outline everything from what kind of food they eat to how often they should visit the vet. This level of detail ensures your pet’s lifestyle remains consistent and safe.

Will Provisions
While less robust than a Trust, you can include instructions in your Will regarding who should care for your pet and even leave a monetary gift to that person to help cover expenses. Keep in mind that Wills may go through probate and may take time to enforce, so having a backup plan is wise.

Even outside of a formal estate plan, it’s smart to have a short-term care plan in place. Provide a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member with instructions and access to your home in case of an emergency. This will ensure that your pet isn’t left unattended in the short term if something were to happen unexpectedly.

This month is a good reminder of how deeply our pets enrich our lives. Take this time to show them some extra love and also the peace of mind that comes with knowing they’ll be cared for, no matter what.

At The Estate Planning & Legacy Law Center, we’re here to help you create a thoughtful, comprehensive plan that includes every member of your family, human or not. If you’d like to learn more about setting up a Pet Trust or other planning options, contact us today.