Pets and Estate Planning

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Not all that long ago, an estate planning lawyer would have given you an odd look if you had inquired about creating a "pet trust" or otherwise including your animals in your estate planning. But now, if you don't bring it up, your lawyer is likely to. A sizeable percentage of people who go to lawyers about wills and trusts want to take steps to make sure that if their animals outlive them, they will be well taken care of.

It's a reasonable concern. Many animals end up being surrendered to shelters after their owners die, and many of them do not find new homes. Usually, family members want to ensure a better outcome for the animals, but simply may not be able to take care of them or find a suitable home. Especially if the pet is older, ill, or unusual--think of a macaw, which can live to age 80 or above--finding a new home can be very difficult. And the wave of foreclosures in recent years has meant that many families formerly in their own homes are now in rentals, many of which don't allow animals.  

Luckily, with some planning, you can provide for your pets, and make sure that they'll always have a home. Here are some of your options.

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By clicking "Find a Lawyer", you agree to the Martindale-Nolo Texting Terms. Martindale-Nolo and up to 5 participating attorneys may contact you on the number you provided for marketing purposes, discuss available services, etc. Messages may be sent using pre-recorded messages, auto-dialer or other automated technology. You are not required to provide consent as a condition of service. Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Your number will be held in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

You should not send any sensitive or confidential information through this site. Any information sent through this site does not create an attorney-client relationship and may not be treated as privileged or confidential. The lawyer or law firm you are contacting is not required to, and may choose not to, accept you as a client. The Internet is not necessarily secure and emails sent through this site could be intercepted or read by third parties.

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