Don’t Forget Fido: Estate Planning When You Have Pets
October 29, 2025
For many of us, pets are more than companions—they’re family. They greet us at the door, comfort us during tough times, and bring daily joy. But have you ever stopped to think about what would happen to your pets if something unexpected happened to you?
Estate planning isn’t just about distributing financial assets or naming heirs. It’s also about protecting the beings that depend on you—including your pets. Taking a few thoughtful steps now can ensure your furry (or feathered, or scaled) friends are cared for the way you intend.
Why Pet Planning Matters
Without a clear plan, your pets could face an uncertain future. In many cases, animals left behind after an owner’s death end up in shelters—not because loved ones don’t care, but because no one knows what to do. Friends or family may be unprepared, unable, or unaware of your wishes.
By including your pets in your estate plan, you make sure they have a home, caregiver, and resources to live comfortably after you’re gone.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Pets
Choose a Caregiver You Trust
Identify someone who genuinely loves animals and is willing to take responsibility for your pet. Have an open conversation with them to make sure they’re both willing and able to step in. It’s wise to name a backup caregiver, too, in case your first choice can’t fulfill the role.
Provide Written Instructions
Create a document outlining your pet’s daily routine, medical needs, diet, quirks, and preferences. Think of it as a guidebook for your pet’s happiness and well-being. Store it with your estate documents and make sure your caregiver knows where to find it.
Set Aside Financial Support
Caring for a pet can be costly. You can leave money to your chosen caregiver or set up a pet trust, a legal arrangement that provides funds specifically for your pet’s care. A trustee oversees how the funds are used, ensuring your pet’s needs are met as you intended.
Update Your Plan Regularly
Life changes—so do our households and the pets we love. Review your estate plan periodically, especially if you add a new pet, move, or change caregivers.
Make Your Wishes Known
Even the most thoughtful plan won’t help if no one knows it exists. Let your family, close friends, and financial or legal advisors know about your pet care instructions and where to find them. Consider carrying a wallet card or phone note that lists your pets and emergency contacts, so first responders know there are animals at home who may need help.
Peace of Mind for You—and Your Pets
Estate planning for pets is an act of love and responsibility. It’s one more way to make sure the creatures who’ve given you unconditional loyalty are safe and cared for, no matter what happens.
You can’t predict the future—but you can plan for it. And for your pets, that plan could make all the difference.
Sources:
https://bestfriends.org/pet-care-resources/estate-planning-pets-preparing-will-or-trust
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-planning/pet-trust-primer
Disclosure:
This information is an overview and should not be considered as specific guidance or recommendations for any individual or business.
This material is provided as a courtesy and for educational purposes only.
These are the views of the author, not the named Representative or Advisory Services Network, LLC, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named Representative nor Advisory Services Network, LLC gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your Financial Advisor for further information.