Are your pets an important part of your life? Of course they are! Many people consider their furry, scaly or feathered friends to be like their children.
So, how do you protect your pets if, by some chance, you become incapable of taking care of them by mental incapacity or death? Animals are entirely dependent on their owners, every day and night. You can provide for them in the long term by creating a statement legally.
What does this entail?
Legal methods to protect pets vary in the U.S. When using the power of attorney, remember to include a paragraph and statement about your animals. Just as your family members are important parts of your life, your animals are there for you every single day.
Animals have long life spans, and this is something that you should take into account when planning for the future. For example, some parrots can live for decades. Healthy and well cared for cats and dogs can live for more than 15 years. Some fish or lizard species are known for their longevity. Did you know that some species of tortoise win the award for longevity and can have lifespans longer than 75 years? Horses can live for more than 15 years. A pet is a responsibility and some can live for a long time.
Legal methods to protect your pets
Help to protect your loved one with proactive measures today in the event of your incapacity or your death. Protect your pets by including them in your last will and testament. Sitting down with an attorney and writing out instructions helps your beloved pets in the long run.
Antony M. Eminowicz, PLLC is an experienced and dedicated attorney who will look out for you in all aspects of your life. He can help you to write out a clear guide that expresses your wishes and communicates what your plans are for your pets. His knowledge of the rights of pets can help you in your circumstances and in the future.
The rights of your pets
Pets have legal rights in New York, but this is a question that many pet owners don’t think to ask until it is too late. In circumstances where there is no clear direction put forward about the care of animals, disputes and discrepancies may come before the needs of the animal.
One step you can take is to teach neighbors, friends and family members about how to take care of your pet. The animal being comfortable and familiar with other people is the first action you can take in planning for the long-term care and well-being of the animal.
Pets require constant care and attention. This is why it is important to have a care plan for the best interest and safety of the animal.
What is a pet trust?
A pet trust is a separate legal document in which you can detail different aspects regarding the care of your pets.
The first step is to identify a trustee or trustees who would be in control of the funds necessary to provide for the well being of the pet.
Pet owners can detail how they would like the principal and income used for the care of their pet. They can also set the money aside exclusively for medical care.
Most owners allow for a certain amount of money to be set aside for a broad range of concerns. The care of a pet is a daily job and with concerns that you might not foresee.
You can create a separate article to govern the pet trust, outlining your wishes in terms of how the principal is spent – if you wish, you can make sure money is only provided for the pet’s medical care.
Putting forward a plan for your pets can give you peace of mind. 46 states, including New York, respect the rights of pets as living property and can assign ownership over them. The other states – Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, and Mississippi – have no such provisions.
Get in touch
Including your pets in your last will and testament and power of attorney will add a personal touch and ensure that your pets are well cared for. Protect your pets and their legal rights by contacting The Law Office of Antony M. Eminowicz today.
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