Our pets are important to us. They are often that ray of sunshine on an otherwise cloudy day. They are there for us when we need to smile, provide a listening ear and give non-judgmental, unconditional love. As pet owners, we want what is best for our animals and take many steps to ensure their safety and well-being. Of those many steps, an important one to remember is to have a plan in the event of your death.
Few people really give a lot of thought about what their pet will need after the owner has passed. Most likely, because death/estate planning is not a topic that one wants to think about. However, just as estate planning for your relatives is necessary, it is especially vital that you make plans for your pets. After all, your animal will still need food, shelter and medical care when you are gone. You should also consider having a plan in place in the event that you are in critical health and unable to care for your pet.
If you have never given thought to what will happen to your pets after you are gone or experience severe medical issues, then now is the time to take action. Here are several steps you can take to prepare for your pet in either of those scenarios.
- Make sure responsible parties are aware of the arrangements you make so that they can act quickly and without needing to wait.
- Consider giving a key to your home or apartment to a trusted friend or relative so that your pet can be given attention sooner rather than later.
- Carry a copy of any instructions regarding your pet with your identification papers/driver’s license.
- If you have an Estate Executor, provide them with a copy of your wishes or pet’s needs.
While these are some basic steps to have in place, there are additional plans you may want to make to benefit your pet. After all, pets will also mourn the passing of a loved one, so if you can make the transition smoother now, it will make things easier later.
Of course, planning for your pet’s future does not have to mean that the plan is only executed in the event of your death. It is also recommended that you make some plans for your pet in the case of an emergency (accident, sudden illness). The Animal Rescue League recommends the following actions be taken by pet owners:
- Choose at least 2 responsible and reliable people to be temporary caretakers in the event of an emergency. Put together a packet of information that includes feeding schedules, type(s) of food to give or avoid, vet’s contact info and any other things they might need to know.
- Place changeable I.C.E. notices on the doors and windows of your home that let emergency personnel know how many pets you have. On the inside of your front and back doors, have notes with emergency contact names and information.
- Let family and friends know of your plans for your pets in the event of your death or an emergency. Be sure they know how to contact each other.
Sadly, making plans for one’s pets is something often overlooked, or perhaps, not anticipated by many pet owners. But it is a responsibility all pet owners have. Your pet has been there for you in times of stress, discomfort, joy and other occasions, be sure you don’t overlook your pet at time that could be extremely stressful for them. Take the time to talk to friends, family, a pet sitter and, perhaps even an estate planner to be sure that you have done all you can to make life’s transitions easier for your pet. If you have trouble with this element of pet ownership, please feel free to talk to us here at Sleep..Eazz . We would happy to help you create a plan.
