Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
Q: I live alone. What will happen to my dog if I die?
A:Pets are unquestionably part of our families, holding a special place in our hearts and lives. It’s not surprising that older pet owners often worry about what might happen to their pets if they are hospitalized or pass away. Fortunately, there are resources and specific steps seniors can take to ensure their pets are well cared for after they are gone.
What if I am in the hospital?
Websites like www.Rover.com list pet sitters who have passed background checks and can either take your pet into their home or visit your home daily. Long-term boarding is another option for extended hospital stays. Pet fostering programs are available if you face a prolonged stay in a rehabilitation facility. Contact your local SPCA for foster programs in your area.
Is there such a thing as pet planning?
Your pet is considered personal property. Therefore, if you pass away and have not made specific arrangements, it/they will be inherited by your next of kin. Since 2022 however, all 50 U.S. states have enacted pet trust laws. Florida statutes allow for the creation of a “trust for the care of an animal” that remains in effect until the death of the last animal named in the trust.
How does a pet trust work?
A pet trust functions like a revocable living trust. As the grantor, you create a legal trust entity by executing trust documents and funding the trust by placing money and assets into a separate account under the trust’s name. For a pet trust, this includes:
- The pets themselves (classified as personal property for estate planning purposes)
- Any equipment or accessories they may need
- Sufficient funds to cover their anticipated lifetime of expenses
Your trust documents will also designate a trustee, who manages the money contained in the trust for the care of the pet, and a caregiver of the pet. You can appoint more than one person to these roles and name successors, as well as a remainder beneficiary for any funds left over after the pet dies.
According to The Florida Bar Association, “It is undeniable that many people treat their pets as relatives and often care about their pets as much as the human members of their family. Pet trusts provide pet lovers the peace of mind that comes with knowing one’s pet will be loved and cared for throughout its life.”
Learn more about pet trusts at www.AnimalCareTrustUSA.org or at Central Florida locations of One Senior Place. RSVP for “Planning for Your Pet,” October 25 in Viera, by calling 321-751-6771 or online at www.OneSeniorPlace.com/events.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
