Here's How To Care For Your Pets After You Die

In the United States. 68% of all the households (or 85 million families) have a pet, according to the 2017-2018 National Pet Owners Survey.

For many of us, owning a pet is a privilege. We think of our pets as family members – just with four legs and fur! The sad truth is that many of us don’t think about what will happen to our pets if something happens to us. Who is going to take care of your cat, dog, hamster, or goldfish when you are no longer able to care for them yourself?

Erach F. Screwvala is an estate-planning attorney with Screwvala LLC, and he is seeing a trend for managing base assets – which is pet provisions. Not too long ago, a woman from New York City left her cats $300,000! Oprah Winfrey has reportedly left $30 million for her dogs! But, don’t worry, you don’t have to leave that much money to ensure your pet is cared for.

You have options according to Screwvala as to how you want your pet cared for – First, you could name a beneficiary, second, set up a pet trust. Finally, find an organization that you trust to look after your pet for you. The best advice Screwvala offers is that people should leave enough money behind to make sure your pet is well cared for. This is especially important if your pet has a longer life span, like a horse. To start planning today, find an estate planning attorney near you! Share this post with everyone you know.