As part of your estate plan, you should make a plan for the care of your pets when you pass away.
You may ask a trusted friend or family member to take on this role, and you may choose to include this wish in your Will. You may also include a gift to the carer to cover the costs of your pet’s care and to show your appreciation.
Some people may not have anyone they would trust, or who could take on this responsibility. There are several Pet Legacy or Pet Bequest Programs run by charities that can provide peace of mind in these circumstances, such as the Lort Smith Pet Legacy Program and the RSPCA Pet Bequest Program.
Usually, Pet Legacy Programs allow pet owners to register their pets with the program and the charity requests that a minimum bequest/gift to the charity (around $5,000 per pet) be included in the pet owner’s Will to cover the costs of care and needs for their pet.
Pets are usually placed by the program in temporary foster care whilst forever/permanent homes are found.
Bequests/gifts in Wills can be made to these charities regardless of participation in their Pet Legacy Programs and this is great way to support the work of these wonderful charities.
For information on the Lort Smith Pet Legacy Program or the RSPCA Pet Bequest Program click on the links above.
For assistance with your estate planning contact Fleur Craig of Armour-Craig Legal on (03) 5636 4986 or fleur@armourcraiglegal.com.au.