Why Arizonans should include pets in their wills

Jodi Polanski and Peanut.

Submitted photo

To prevent trauma and heartbreak that can occur when pets are not included in a will, many nonprofits offer programs that guarantee placement of a pet in a loving home should they outlive their owner. There are also options that help pet owners provide for their pet’s ongoing veterinary care, food, supplies and more.”

Opinion

You don’t have to be wealthy to leave a lasting legacy

Nearly 70% of U.S. households have a pet and for many owners, these animals are more like family members than mere companions. While it can be difficult to imagine life without a beloved pet, it’s even more important for “pet parents” to consider what life for their pets would be like should they be left without an owner. 

August is National Make-A-Will month, a timely reminder to create or update your will, and to put directives in place so that final wishes for your assets, property and children are honored. In Arizona, pets are legally considered personal property, so it’s also important to include them in estate planning. This can not only ensure they are adequately cared for, but it can also prevent family disagreements or disputes. 

To prevent trauma and heartbreak that can occur when pets are not included in a will, many nonprofits offer programs that guarantee placement of a pet in a loving home should they outlive their owner. There are also options that help pet owners provide for their pet’s ongoing veterinary care, food, supplies and more, but the goal remains the same — to prevent a pet from ending up in a place where their future is uncertain. 

Here are some things to consider when drawing up a will, trust or other similar document. 

Be specific

When listing pets in your will, be specific, especially if you own more than one animal. For example, instead of writing, “my dog goes to my sister,” write your dog’s name and breed, and use your sister’s full legal name. 

Be thoughtful

When deciding on a pet guardian, choose someone you know well and trust. Ideally this person would care for your pets like you would, providing food, shelter, veterinary care and companionship. If you have more than one pet, consider whether you want one person to care for all of them, or if you want to send them to separate homes. Setting up a pet trust also allows you to allocate funds for things like veterinary care, food and supplies. 

Be diligent

Most professionals recommend updating a will every few years or after big life events. Be sure to include any new pets and list new pet guardians (if applicable) in these updates. If staying on top of a will seems daunting, you can often include a clause that covers any pets specifically named, as well as any other pets you own but didn’t name. That way all pets will be left to the named guardian(s).

Be connected

Staying connected to your local pet community can open doors to valuable support and resources, from crisis support to long-term planning.

Organizations like Lost Our Home Pet Rescue are dedicated to helping pets and the people who love them by ensure pets are safe, loved and cared for — no matter what the future holds.

Editor’s note: Jodi Polanski is executive director of Tempe-based Lost Our Home Pet Rescue. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.