Caveat:
Don’t attempt this alone! Trust drafted for pets are different than ones prepared for people.
DOCUMENTS WE PREPARE
WILL:
This instrument goes into effect after you’ve become deceased. Among other things, it ear-marks certain funds to be diverted from your estate. These funds are placed into a Pet Protection Trust described later.
The Will also names the person who will be the Caretaker of your pet. In many cases, the Caretaker of your pet will also be the same person who will act as the overseer of funds that are ear-marked to the Pet Protection Trust.
If a person already has a Will, we can prepare a Codicil (amendment) to that document to include the provisions described above.
POWER OF ATTORNEY:
Names the person who will oversee the care of your pet if you’re alive, but unable or unwilling to act due to accident, illness, disability, incompetency or injury.
PET PROTECTION TRUST:
This is the vehicle which harbors the funds which are set aside for your pet’s health, maintenance, support and education. This document also names the person will watch as the Custodian over said funds.
This document also names various beneficiaries who will receive any remaining funds in the Trust when your pet passes away.
The Trust can be set up and funded while you’re alive. Alternatively, it can be set up while you’re alive and funded only upon your death.
The Trust can be made Revocable or Irrevocable. An Irrevocable Trust, if appropriately designed, will insulate the funds from would-be creditors including (but not limited to) Medicaid, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities.
The terms and interpretations of the Trust will be based on NJ law, practice and procedure.
If you reside outside NJ, we will coordinate our efforts with your family attorney.
PET CARE ORGANIZER:
We provide a compendium for you to provide guidance for your pet’s Caretaker. Said compendium enables you, among other things, to
describe your pet’s:
a. food and diet
b. favorites and phobias
c. veterinary information and contacts
d. routines, quirks, and “Special Traits”.