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ESTATE PLANNING WITH PETS It is difficult to think about the day when our pets will no longer be with us. What if we're not around to take care of them? A permanent caregiver will be needed. You'll want to arrange for a caregiver, to ensure long term care for your four-legged friends. Be sure to choose someone you know will be able to provide your pets with a good home, who can give your pets the kind of attention and care they're used to. Give detailed instructions to caregivers regarding how to find a new home for your pets. If you adopted a pet from an organization, be sure to check your adoption agreement for clauses requiring your pet to be returned to their care. If you have multiple pets, decide whether they should stay together or be placed with different caregivers. Keep in touch with your caregivers, so that you can make other arrangements if their circumstances change and they are no longer available to serve in that capacity. When designating a permanent caregiver, you should include a backup option. Avoid naming an organization as your permanent caregiver (unless otherwise stipulated in your adoption agreement). Pets are used to living in your home. Think about placing them where they'd be the most comfortable. You can help to ensure that everything goes smoothly by incorporating your wishes for your animals in your will or trust. Making formal arrangements will bring you peace of mind and reassurance. It's important to have a plan, in writing. Long-term arrangements require some thought and can take time to implement. While preparing your estate planning trust, you'll want to include authorization for the use of funds from your estate for your pets. This money can be used for their care and other costs that may arise. Consider setting up a trustee, as an additional layer of oversight and care for your animals. Planning provisions for your pets involves some important decision making. If you have any questions, consult a legal expert who can assist you with deciding what to include in your will. That person can also help you figure out what kind of estate planning with your pets will be most effective. And don't forget to leave copies of your will or trust with your executor and chosen caregivers. LOST YOUR PET? Contact Tails & Trails at (951) 663-7012. ~ Vivian Walker, vivr@sbcglobal.net 42 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | JANUARY 2021 Tails & Trails - All Pets Check with your club contact to confirm meeting place, date, and time.