There are proven health benefits to owning a pet. The National Center for Infectious Diseases reports that “pets can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness.” http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health_benefits.htm.
But what will happen to your pet if you must move to someplace that does not allow pets? How can you provide for the continued care of a pet who has given you so much?
Many assisted and nursing homes do not allow their residents to own pets. Mildred has three pets. Mildred’s greatest fear is her pets could be euthanized if she dies or becomes incapacitated. The sad fact is that unless she makes appropriate arrangements, her fear could become real. According to one estimate, one-half million pets are euthanized in shelters each year because their human care givers have predeceased.
Mildred can provide for the care of her pets through a Trust. Mildred can pick a person to enforce the terms of the trust, to make sure the person who is taking care of her pets meets his obligations. The trust ends when the pet(s) dies. At that point, any remaining trust property can be distributed as Mildred indicated in the trust.
By “planning today for loving care tomorrow,” Mildred can meet her pets’ future needs while giving herself peace of mind. If you are interested in creating a pet trust for you pet, call our office at 508-994-5200.
This information is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific questions you should consult a qualified attorney. This article was written by Attorney Michelle D. Beneski of Surprenant & Beneski, P.C. The law firm is with offices in New Bedford, Hyannis and Boston that specializes in estate, tax, Medicaid and disability planning.
