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If you love pets, it means that you consider them an important part of your family. Pets are categorized as one’s property in most states. Still, there’s a lot that goes into caring for pets, and that care and love should continue even after you are gone. So, how can you ensure that your pets are cared for in your estate plan?

Set Up a Trust for Your Pets

In the same way that a person establishes a trust for their children who have not come of age, you can ensure that your pets are cared for in your estate by establishing a trust for them. Understandably, setting up a trust for your pets is usually a long, complicated, and expensive option. However, it is necessary if you want to leave your pets in good hands and with enough money to pay for their daily expenses throughout their anticipated lifespan.

Choose the Right Caretaker

When establishing a trust for your pet, you should plan to ensure that they will be in good hands when you are no longer around to love and care for them. Given that pets are like children and they tend to accept someone they trust and are familiar with, you must find them the right caretaker.

You can look from within your circle of friends and family and then speak to the persons you consider long before you include their names in the trust document. If the person accepts to be your pet’s caretaker, you should go over your expectations and see that they agree with these expectations. Most importantly, you should ensure you choose a person who has your pet’s best interests at heart.

Provide Enough Funds for Your Pet’s Care

The final step as you work on plans to ensure that your pet is cared for in your estate plan is to provide for them enough funds. Ensure that the funds can cover the cost of their food, vet visits, and grooming. The goal is not to burden the caretaker by expecting them to pay for the pet’s expenses out of pocket.

If you love your pets and want them taken care of after your passing, you can make plans to have them live comfortably with someone they know and trust. If you are unsure where to start, contact O’Brien Law Firm, LLC, for expert legal guidance today.