How to include pet in my will?

Monday November 2nd, 2009

Question:

What should the average person do to create a good plan for their pets?

Answer:

38 states have pet trusts statutes, and if you are in one of these states you can create a pet trust for the care of your pet. The pet trust can be part of the will or in a separate trust document. In New York and New Jersey where I practice, I create pet trusts for many of my clients. And if your state is one of the few that does not have a pet trust statute, you can still have a good plan for your pet. For example, you could find a friend of family member and leave the pet and some funds for the pet's care directly to that person in your will as a bequest. Back-ups should be selected in case the first person named is unable to take the animal when the time comes. The most important thing is to take the first step and develop a good plan for the continuing care of your animals.

For a list of pet trust statutes by state visit: State Pet Trust Statutes

Visit our expert center for more must-know tips.

Frances Carlisle is a trusts and estates attorney who has been practicing in New York City for over 20 years. Her estate planning work for clients includes the preparation of wills and trusts, including trusts for animals. She has appeared on various television networks to discuss the importance of estate planning to provide for the continuing care of companion animals.

Tags Dog Laws, Cat News/Lifestyle

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	Actually I like this answer as a suitable starting point. I've worked in several areas of law--but nothing that dealt with pets--and realize each is a world unto itself. Also, I never considered including my pet in my will formally. Thanks for the list of states. over 2 years ago by Anonymous
	Here is a list of the 38 states and the Disstrict of Columiba which have Pet Trust Statutes Frances Carlisle 1. Alabama 2. Alaska 3. Arizona 4. Arkansas 5. California 6. Colorado 7. District of Columbia 8. Florida 9. Hawaii 10. Idaho 11. Illinois 12. Indiana 13. Iowa 14. Kansas 15. Maine 16. Michigan 17. Missouri 18. Montana 19. Nebraska 20. Nevada 21. New Hampshire 22. New Jersey 23. New Mexico 24. New York 25. North Carolina 26. North Dakota 27. Ohio 28. Oregon 29. Pennsylvania 30. Rhode Island 31. South Carolina 32. South Dakota 33. Tennessee 34. Texas 35. Utah 36. Virginia 37. Washington 38. Wisconsin 39. Wyoming For citations and language of each statute go to: www.professorbeyer.com about 3 years ago by Anonymous
	A list of the 38 states would have been helpful. As it is, this answer is pretty weak and mostly common sense. about 3 years ago by Anonymous