“Pets have more love and compassion in them than most humans” so said Robert Wagner, the well known actor. 

Whether you have a goldfish, potbelly pig, snake, hamster, goldfish, cat or dog who will care for them if you aren’t able to? It happens all too often. People simply forget about accounts or policies they may have started or they lose the paperwork, change jobs, get married, or move.  

Chances are that your pet is the furry child that you have neglected to make plans for in case of your disability or even your death.  Before you assign the task of fostering your pet consider these things:

1.     Who has the time and energy to care for your pet?

2.     What will it cost and where will the money come from?

3.    Is there space in their home?

4.    Is your pet an indoor or outdoor creature or both?

5.    What are the vet needs, diet requirements and exercise routines

6.    Is there pet insurance?

7.    Is your pet child friendly?

Next, make a list of a few friends and acquaintances who might be willing to adopt or foster and then talk to them, at any rate do not list anyone who has not agreed to take this on. You must have their blessing and cooperation in advance. If you don’t have a friend or relative who is up to the job you can contact a shelter, pet charity association or your local online Nextdoor group to make arrangements in case they are needed. 

List the complete details in your www.willandaway.com account and make sure that your agent has the password so all information can be accessed immediately if and when necessary. These are not typically the kind of instructions that are listed in wills.  In some states pet trusts are recognized but they can be tricky.  This is an issue you might want to discuss with your attorney.

“Pets are humanizing.  They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nuture and care for all life” as James Cromwell so nicely put it. Your pets are at your mercy and will miss you but trust you to do your best by them. Prepare for the worst but hope for the best…

What does peace of mind cost?  Turns out, not much – it can be had for $40 a year at www.willandaway.com. Create an account today and give your personal agent the log in information if and when they need it for your benefit.

Information shared here is not to be taken as legal or financial advice. Suggestions and resources are presented for your consideration and may or may not apply to your personal situation. Please consult your advisers.