Estate planning should include the care of pets
May 30th, 2008 Posted in Pets GuideMost people don’t want to think about their own demise, but your answer to that question has a huge impact on Fido or Fluffy should they outlive you.
A sudden heart attack or a car accident could happen, and your pets would be left alone, possibly ending up in the pound or a less-than-ideal home.
Planning for your pet’s future requires careful thought and provisions for both short-term and long-term care. “For your immediate game plan, pick a couple of people you can count on the step right in the moment something happens,” Terrell says
These people will care for your pets until permanent arrangements can be made. Make sure they know their role, have a key to your house and instructions for the pet’s day-to-day needs.
“Another good thing to do is carry a card in your wallet with information to reach these people so they can be contacted in case something happens,” Terrell says. Otherwise, your pets could be left without food and water for several days before someone thinks to check on them.
The people you designate as short-term pet caregivers should also know your wishes for your pet’s future care. Pets can go to a trusted friend or relative, or the short-term caregiver may be willing to find new homes for your animals. Pets can also be surrendered to a shelter such as Paws and Claws.
Terrell has been through the process of planning for her five cats‘ future should something happen to her. She does know that her pets will be safe should they outlive her.
Tags: animals, car accident, caregiver, cats, demise, fido, future care, game, game plan, long term care, new homes, paws, paws and claws, Pet, pets, provisions, sudden heart attack, walletRelated posts
Tags: animals, car accident, caregiver, cats, demise, fido, future care, game, game plan, long term care, new homes, paws, paws and claws, Pet, pets, provisions, sudden heart attack, wallet
