Estate Planning? Don't Forget Your Pet

The older I get, the more I find myself reading the obituaries. I don't expect to know the people listed, I just find it interesting to read about their accomplishments. I ran across one the other day that made me think about an aspect of preparing ourselves and our estate for the end, that I had never considered.

The obituary read in part, "she leaves to mourn, sisters, nieces, nephews, etc., and her constant companion, her dog Lucky." It gave me pause. I'm sure that the poor departed lady was well prepared when the end came, with will witnessed and signed, thoughtful bequests, funeral arrangements already made, typed up and near to hand.

I wonder if she had given a thought to Lucky. I am a dog owner, of a loyal and loving boxer named Duke. It had never occurred to me to wonder what would happen to Duke if I died suddenly or even after a long illness. Young married couples with small children choose and name guardians for their children, in the event they should suddenly die or become incapacitated to the point of not being able to care for the children. You who love your pets, the way I love Duke, know that our pets are our children.

Similarly, you should plan for their care in the event of your death. You should have notices in a highly visible location, that announce that pets live in the home. You should put a plan in place with your near neighbors for them to provide interim emergency care.

For long term care after your death:

First, if the animal is clearly your pet whom you may be leaving in the care of a spouse or significant other, make sure that they will be keeping your pet if you should die. Don't assume it, discuss it in detail with your partner.

Second, no spouse? Inquire among family members if it is feasible for one of them to take over the care of your pet. If they agree, discuss it in detail. Prepare a list of important information, name and address of vet, special food needs, any chronic conditions, any prescribed meds the pet may be taking, any idiosyncrasies.

Third, if there are no family members who will agree to care for your pet in the event of your death, try close friends. You know your friends, and you will know whether or not they will be good guardians for your special friend.

If a family member or friend agrees to take on the care of your pet, please formalize the agreement. Have an attorney draw up a document, explaining the arrangement and also plan to set aside funds for the care of your pet.

What if there is no spouse, no family, no friend? If you are elderly and possibly in poor health, there are organizations that have made it their mission to work with you in placing your pet with an adoptive family. Check with your local SPCAs for the names of these placement specialists and start working with them early on, so that there will be a quick and smooth transition. Please let your attorney and family know that you have made this arrangement.

There are so many aspects to consider when we begin estate and death planning. Don't forget to plan for the future of your "constant companion."

Cliff deMarks is a multi-genre musician from Atlanta, Georgia. He has been blessed with the ability to play more than eight instruments, including piano, Hammond b-3 organ, saxophone and clarinet. In addition to jazz, he composes and produces the following genres: neo-classical piano, ambient and electronic new age, electronic dance, contemporary gospel and Christian hymns. Please visit his site dedicated to his dog Duke, http://www.puppylovemusic.com listen to and buy his CD, Piano Music for Your Dog.