Is Fluffy Named In Your Will?

Metro®Boston, Publication Date: February 15, 2012
By: George Warshaw

How many of you remembered to mention your best friend in your will or trust? Yes, I mean your cat, dog or horse.

Hardly anyone I suspect!!!

Recently I was at a “dog-in-park” charity event speaking on how to protect your pets should you become ill or die. I asked numbers of people if their pets were mentioned in their will.

Half didn’t have a will (shame on you!); and of the remaining so-called “dog lovers”, one person had a special trust for her pet, but only one out of ten mentioned their pets in a will or trust.

If you think your kids, your friends or someone you know will certainly take care of your pets, don’t be fooled! You’ll be shocked and appalled at the multiple thousands of pets needlessly abandoned each year upon the death or illness of their owner – and it could easily happen to you!

What to do in your will or trust.

First, pick several choices for your pet’s potential caretakers.

Second, set aside some money for your pet’s medical care, food and well-being.

Third, talk to a lawyer to make sure that the money you set aside will actually be used for your pet’s care.

Don’t delay! © 2012 George Warshaw.

George Warshaw is a real estate and estate planning attorney in Massachusetts. He represents buyers and sellers of homes and condos in Massachusetts, and prepares wills, trusts for individuals and families. George welcomes new clients and questions at metro@warshawlaw.com.

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Legal Advice: Laws, and court decisions interpreting them, change frequently and this article is not updated as laws change. The content and information contained in this article is neither intended as legal advice nor shall establish an attorney-client relationship.

Tags: Caring for Pets