For many people, pets are family.
But here’s a question most pet owners don’t think about:
What happens to your pet if you pass away or become incapacitated?
Unfortunately, without proper planning, pets can end up in shelters — even when their owner had loving family members. Verbal promises are not legally enforceable.
That’s where a Pet Trust comes in.
What Is a Pet Trust?
A Pet Trust is a legally enforceable trust created to provide for the care of your pet if you can no longer do so.
All 50 states now recognize some form of pet trust statute.
A pet trust allows you to:
- Name a caregiver
- Set aside funds for your pet’s care
- Appoint someone to manage the money
- Provide detailed instructions for care
Unlike simply naming someone in a will, a pet trust creates ongoing oversight and financial support.
Why Not Just Leave Money to a Friend?
Because it doesn’t guarantee your pet will actually be cared for.
If you leave $20,000 to a friend “for the dog”:
- They legally own the money outright.
- They are not required to spend it on the pet.
- There is no oversight.
A pet trust solves that problem by creating accountability.
Real-Life Examples
Example 1: The Senior Dog With Medical Needs
Maria has a 12-year-old Golden Retriever who requires:
- Prescription food
- Arthritis medication
- Biannual vet visits
She sets up a pet trust with:
- $25,000 allocated for care
- Her sister named as caregiver
- A friend named as trustee to oversee spending
The trustee ensures funds are used properly for the dog’s benefit.
Example 2: Multiple Pets With Different Needs
James owns:
- Two parrots (who may live 50+ years)
- Three cats
He creates a pet trust that:
- Names a bird sanctuary as backup caregiver
- Provides annual funding for food and veterinary costs
- Specifies housing requirements
Because parrots can outlive their owners by decades, long-term funding planning is essential.
Example 3: Temporary Incapacity
Pet trusts aren’t just for death.
If you:
- Become hospitalized
- Develop dementia
- Experience sudden disability
A properly drafted pet trust can immediately activate to ensure someone steps in to care for your pet.
What Can a Pet Trust Cover?
You can include instructions for:
- Type of food
- Grooming schedule
- Veterinary providers
- Exercise routines
- Boarding preferences
- End-of-life decisions
Some owners even include provisions for:
- Burial or cremation
- Memorial arrangements
You can be as detailed as you’d like.
How Much Money Should Be Funded?
The amount depends on:
- Your pet’s age
- Expected lifespan
- Medical needs
- Number of animals
- Cost of care in your area
Courts can reduce excessive funding, so the amount should be reasonable and justifiable.
Who Should Be Involved?
A pet trust typically names:
- Caregiver – The person who physically cares for the pet.
- Trustee – The person who controls and distributes the funds.
These roles can be the same person — but often it’s better to separate them for oversight.
Are Pet Trusts Only for the Wealthy?
Not at all.
Even modest estates can benefit from pet trusts — especially for:
- Elderly pets
- Exotic animals
- Long-living animals (birds, reptiles)
- Animals with chronic medical needs
What Happens Without a Plan?
Legally, pets are considered property.
If you pass away without instructions:
- They may pass through your estate like other personal property.
- Family members may not want or be able to care for them.
- They could end up surrendered.
Planning prevents uncertainty.
The Bottom Line
A pet trust ensures that your pet is:
- Loved
- Financially supported
- Cared for according to your wishes
For many families, pets are lifelong companions. Including them in your estate plan provides peace of mind — not just for you, but for the people who may step in to care for them.
If you have pets and are updating your estate plan, adding a pet trust is a thoughtful way to protect the animals who depend on you.
