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By Ashlee Hunt on June 25, 2022
Have you ever wondered what will happen to your pets once you can no longer care for them? Of course, this is not a welcome thought. And if you’re like most people, you consider your pets part of the family. We get it: dog dads and cat moms are parents too. Unlike real children, we often forget – or even ignore – what will happen to them once we are gone.
If you die before them, what will happen to your furry friends? Are you sure your siblings, friends or neighbors can support themselves? Do they know what kind of food they eat, what pills they take every morning or how often they need to be groomed/cleaned? As you already know, there are myriad things that go into pet care, and depending on the type of pet you have, the responsibilities may not be easily transferable. The best way to secure the future of your pets with or without you is to create a simple Pet Directive.
What is a Pet Guideline?
A Pet Directive is a long-term care plan for pets of deceased owners. While alive, it also allows pet owners to better organize their pet’s records and establish how they want their loyal friends to be taken care of if they pass away unexpectedly. It includes their medical history, chosen sitter for their pet, lifestyle preferences, and more.
Having a pet directive in place at the time of your death not only protects your companion, but also provides peace of mind and clarity to your surviving loved ones when it comes to making decisions. One less thing to think about during these stressful times can make a huge difference.
What should I consider when creating a pet guideline?
Who should be the guardians?
You basically have two different options when it comes to your pets’ next guardians. You can leave them to your family or friends or you can nominate an organization of your choice. When choosing a person, consider the following:
- Living conditions : Depending on the animal, you need to consider space and shelter for the keeper. Do they have enough living space/adequate accommodation to provide comfortable shelter? Are they ok with restricting their current space to provide your pet?
- Allergies: Does your guardian or close relative have allergies with your pet? Be sure to clarify this information before appointing someone as a guardian.
- Time and effort: If your pet needs a lot of time and effort, like a dog, is he able to fully support himself? Even if they are, are they willing to take time out of their day to do it?
- Financial situation: Supporting a pet costs more than many people realize. Especially if an animal has a higher life expectancy, it will cost the caretaker more in the long run. You can leave a portion of your estate and assets to the guardian for support based on your experience and past monthly or annual expenses. Whatever you leave behind, make sure they are able and willing to spend it on your pet. 2.
If my guardians can’t take care of my pet, what happens next?
This step is important in case something happens to your designated guardian or they don’t want to take in your pet. Consider adding a second person as a caretaker or naming an organization of your choice to entrust your pet to. It may even be the vet or another family member.
What shelters/organizations should I consider as options?
If you don’t have someone willing and able to care for your pet, there are several organizations and charities you can consider.
2nd Chance 4 Animals: This organization does not have shelters, but specializes in pets left without arrangements. They have a newsletter and sample instruction letters to download for free.
Animal friends: Animal friends is a shelter with various locations in the United States. You can contact them or apply for admission on their website.
Peace of mind : This non-profit organization supports pet owners when they are unable to do so alive, as well as after death. One of their promises is to find a loving new home for every animal.
Best Friends Animal Society: This organization has shelters all over the country. They take care of the animals left behind and ensure that they are adopted by competent people.
What are the special considerations for my pet(s)? (e.g. allergies, dietary restrictions, health issues, etc.)
Only you know your pet’s needs and who can truly meet them. Be sure to consider all the essential things that need to be done when caring for your pet and include them in the instructions to your guardian. It’s also good to be realistic about what your chosen tutor can and will do. You might really want your brother, Alex, to take care of your dog, but will he really make sure to give him his pills 3 times a day? Responsibility is essential.
Are there any pre-existing commitments that my pet’s caregiver should be aware of? (e.g. insurance, monthly/annual vet visits, memberships, etc.)
Any subscriptions or accounts related to your pet should also be included in your pet directive, as this will help your guardian make quick decisions when it comes to caring for your companion. It will also help your family easily find accounts and subscriptions that you may no longer need.
What if I don’t have a Pet Policy/End of Life Plan for my pet?
If you don’t have a pet directive or trust, your next of kin or a court-appointed person can determine what happens to your pets. It’s best not to assume that someone will take care of your pet after it dies, as only about a quarter of pets are taken in by relatives or friends. Caring for an animal is a big responsibility, even if you don’t feel like it. Without lockers, your pet could end up in a shelter or, worse, abandoned.
About the Author:
Hello, my name is Ash and I am an animal lover, former pet owner and currently working in the end of life digital industry. Last year, my family lost our dog, Symen, due to his advanced age, and for the first time experienced the loss of a pet. A few months later, my sister decided to get a dog and was able to take in a puppy that was left in a shelter after the owner passed away.
This experience, learning first hand the consequences of not having an inheritance plan in place for pets, is what led me to write this article. After reading, I hope you will consider creating a pet guideline for your companion and even start your own end-of-life plan. Planning for the end of my life and that of my family is done by Good Confidencea secure digital legacy platform.
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