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Taking care of your pets during the estate planning process

On Behalf of | Oct 21, 2024 | Estate Planning

As a pet owner, you might feel obliged to include your pet in your estate plan, better ensuring their welfare after you’re gone. One of the ways you can do this is by establishing a pet trust.

In Florida, the creation of a pet trust is addressed under Florida Statutes Title XLII. § 736.0408. This outlines the ability to create a trust for the care of pets alive during the owner’s lifetime, which will remain in effect until the pet’s death.

What are the benefits of creating a trust for your pets?

Creating a pet trust as part of your estate planning process helps ensure that your beloved pet gets cared for according to your wishes, no matter what happens to you. Benefits include:

  • Immediate effectiveness: Pet trusts activate as soon as you’re incapacitated or pass away, making sure there’s no delay in your pet’s care.
  • Detailed care instructions: You can outline every aspect of your pet’s care, from feeding and exercise routines to medical preferences to maintain continuity in their well-being.
  • Harder to contest: A properly structured pet trust is legally stronger than a will, making it more difficult for others to challenge your wishes for your pet’s future.
  • Regular checks: The trust can include provisions for periodic inspections to make sure the caregiver follows your guidelines.
  • Ongoing financial support: Funds are released in installments, making sure they are used for the pet’s care and last for the duration of your pet’s life.
  • Choice of caregiver: You have the authority to select a trusted individual or organization to serve as the caregiver so that your pet is in capable and loving hands.

When you include a pet trust in your estate plan, you make sure that your pet will be cared for as intended, giving you peace of mind that their needs will be met long after you’re gone.