Secure Your Pets for the Future
What exactly does it mean to secure your pets for the future? Let me explain through a situation I was made aware of this past week. As this is a key component of your pet’s care.
I received an email that a local pet parent had passed unexpectedly and that there were no contingencies or known instructions for what was to happen for them in the event of something occurring whether a long-term illness, an accident that leaves you incapacitated for a long period of time or even the reason mentioned here, a death. In this individual’s case, all of this was left up to the grieving pet owner’s daughter to handle and determine next steps along with everything else she was handling.
Just as having something in your will is important for the care of your human kids, having something in place for your pet’s care is integral too. Making others aware is the next step whether your veterinary, family, or pet care people as appropriate. We think we can plan for everything, but the Universe has a way of saying okay, now what? Whether you have one pet or more, getting this piece in place helps ensure their long-term happiness and care.
There are several ways to do this from the Basic to the Long-Term:
Basics for Short-Term or Interim Care
This can be used for unplanned hospitalizations or another emergency as well as for immediate care in the event of your death.
A local person such as a family member, friend, a neighbor, or someone else that you trust. If possible, having a secondary or backup contact in case your first person is not in town, or their circumstances or health has changed.
- Make sure the people have a key or has access to one.
- Set aside some money that is accessible for the short-term care for your pet(s) for the purchase of more food, supplements, medicines, treats or other items for their care.
- Provide the most updated care and food instructions available on your refrigerator or another known, visible location.
- In the interim, having something that smells of them and something that smells like you helps reduce stress…a pillowcase, towel, or a sock of yours or a bed, blanket or toy of theirs when being relocated if in-home care isn’t possible.
Long-Term Care
Identifying the person(s) and/or place in your Will, Trust or Pet Trust (and setting aside some care money) is a step towards the long-term care of your pet(s).
- You can name a beneficiary in your will or trust for the pet’s care
- With a Pet Trust, there are two types: Traditional which is accepted in all US states and gives you as the pet owner the most control; or the Statutory which is accepted in some states.
Naming someone your pets know, and trust will be helpful as your pets can experience stress, worry around where you are, and grieving in realizing you are not returning.
- Follow the steps in the Basic Plan
- Detailed instructions for the care of them, what his or her routine is, when shots or regular veterinary visits are and all veterinary records
- Share what your pet’s likes and dislikes are, favorite bed and toys, are they fearful of loud noises
- A copy of the will or trust with any pet specifics identified
Listed below are several websites that offer additional information, detailed lists, and other options for resources:
Complete Guide On Pet Care After The Death Of Owner (evrmemories.com)
