Pet planning can involve traditional pets, non-traditional pets, and other animals, some of which may have long life expectancies. Don’t just assume family or friends will care for your pet. A traditional power of attorney can result in unwanted consequences, such as granting authority to sell, exchange, or dispose of personal property - your pet, because legally, pets are considered personal property. Traditional estate planning documents also lack needed authority such as the authority to consent to veterinary treatment and euthanasia which could be considered a crime without proper authority. Furthermore, while pets cannot be named as beneficiaries in a Will, (property cannot own other property), they can be the subject of bequests in a Will. Your Will can grant “pet powers” to the Executor, provide instructions or limitations regarding pet care or placement, and provide authority and instructions to spend estate funds for pet care, placements, and related expenses. If you consider your pet a member of your family, then you need a pet plan to ensure your pet is cared for if you are temporarily absent or unable to care for your pet, or in the event of your death or permanent inability to care for your pet.
