Options for Your Client's Pet Caregiver
If your client has a severe illness or accident or passes away, who will look after their pet?
There are many ways to ensure that a client's pet continues to have a loving home, and the
process begins with finding the right caregiver.
Guardian of Their Minor Children
If your clients also have minor children, the nominated guardian of their minor children can be a
good first choice to take care of the family pet. The guardian is already taking on the large
responsibility of caring for the client's children, so they may also be willing to take care of the
client's pet. In addition, having the beloved family pet stay with the children may comfort them
during a difficult time in their lives. It is important that your client discuss this with their
nominated guardian to ensure that they are willing to undertake the additional responsibility.
Family or Friends
When selecting a caregiver for their pet, most people look to a trusted family member or friend.
This person has probably spent time with the pet and knows their typical routines and
behaviors, making them more comfortable taking on the responsibility. This choice may also
provide a pet with a familiar environment. However, caring for a pet is a big responsibility that
requires clients to consider the following in a potential caregiver:
- Does this person's lifestyle, home, and comfort level with pets make them a good fit for
caregiving?
- Do they already have other pets? If yes, do the pets get along with each other?
- Do they understand the expectations and level of care that the pet requires?
- Are there specific instructions or preferences they may not be able to accommodate?
- Can they afford the financial responsibility of supporting a pet?
Animal Welfare Organizations
Sometimes, family and friends are not available to help. Animal welfare organizations such as
shelters, rescue groups, sanctuaries, or foundations can take your client's pet and find a
suitable home. They should locate reputable organizations in the area and visit them to assess
their cleanliness, staff interactions with animals, and overall environment. Pet owners should
select an organization they feel can provide a safe and comfortable space for their pet while
waiting to be placed in a loving permanent home. Your client might also consider whether the
organization mandates euthanasia if the pet is not adoptable. Creating a comprehensive profile
of the pet, including their medical history, behavior, preferences, and any special needs, with
photographs and videos, could make the adoption process easier for the organization.
Executor's or Trustee's Choice
Depending on the client's situation, the client may feel more comfortable giving the person who
winds down their affairs (the executor or trustee) the authority to choose the most suitable home
for their pet animals. Because things can change unexpectedly, providing this level of flexibility
can help ensure that the client's pet goes to a suitable, loving home, even if it is not a home that
was initially considered by the client.
Memorialize the Client's Wishes in Their Estate Plan
Your client must memorialize the caretaker of their pets in their estate plan, typically in a will or
trust, and keep this information easily accessible to the designated caretaker. They must also let
family members, executors, or trustees know the location of any necessary documentation to
care for the pet.
Make sure the client reviews their estate planning documents annually for any changes in your
client's circumstances, their pet's health, behavior, routines, or preferences. We are available to
meet with your clients if they are having trouble selecting the right pet caretaker or want to
discuss the best way to protect their pet. Give us a call to schedule a time to discuss ways we
can partner together to serve clients with pets.
MEREDITH | PC
4325 Windsor Centre Trail
Suite 400
Flower Mound Texas 75028
214-513-1013
This newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as written advice about a Federal tax matter. Readers should consult with their own professional advisors to evaluate or pursue tax, accounting, financial, or legal planning strategies.
You have received this newsletter because I believe you will find its content valuable. Please feel free to Contact Me if you have any questions about this or any matters relating to estate planning.
