It’s something that most people do not like to think about and lawyers often fail to mention it. If some tragedy should befall you, what are the provisions for the dog or other family pets?

Depending upon your country’s estate and trust legislation, the care of your pet could be far from what you had intended. Some areas consider pets as “property”. The result could be that the pet is sold or given away. If those options are not readily available, the pet could find itself in an animal shelter.

Ask your lawyer what provisions can be made for your pet, whether it is this pet or some pet that may be part of your household in the future. Keep in mind that, during a time of family crisis, the household pet may not be a priority. Nevertheless, you can change that with some care to your personal documents and a clear statement of what care you had in mind.

Catherine Forsythe