Planning for Your Pets in Your Estate Plan

Most people think about family, property, and finances when they plan their estate. Fewer think about their pets. If you haven’t included your animals in your plan yet, I can help you add clear instructions so they’ll always be cared for.

Why it matters

Pets are legally considered property in Pennsylvania, which means without instructions they can end up wherever the law or family circumstances push them. That might not reflect your wishes. Clear planning avoids uncertainty, family disputes, or even a beloved pet landing somewhere you never intended.

What you can include

• Designated caretaker. Who should take custody of your pets. Name alternates in case your first choice can’t.

• Financial support. A specific amount of money, or instructions to use estate funds, for food, veterinary care, and other costs.

• Detailed instructions. Diet, medical needs, favorite routines. These can be written in a separate note attached to your will or trust.

• Pet trust. In some cases, a trust can be set up to provide ongoing funds and oversight for a pet’s lifetime.

Keeping it simple

You don’t need a complex setup. Often a single sentence in your will is enough to name a caretaker, paired with a short memorandum about daily care. Larger sums of money or ongoing arrangements can be handled through a trust if needed.

Updating as life changes

People move, adopt new pets, or change their minds about caretakers. Keep your instructions current. Updating your estate plan to reflect changes in your household is part of keeping everything secure.

Bringing it together

If you’d like to include pet care in your own planning, you can start with my intake form. I’d be glad to help you add clear, practical instructions—whether that means updating an existing plan or creating a new one.