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Pet Ownership Transfer Checklist

Ensure a smooth and organized transition for your pet’s new caregiver with this comprehensive checklist. It covers essential documents, key care details, and practical steps to ensure your pet’s well-being in their new home.

  • Adoption or Purchase Papers: Include original documents if possible.
  • Vaccination Records: Current vaccination certificates and tag details.
  • Medical History: Copies of medical history and recent vet check-up reports.
  • Microchip Registration: Provide microchip ID, registration company, and update ownership info.
  • Pet Insurance Policy: Policy documents, provider contact, and transfer instructions.

  • Primary Caretaker’s Name and Contact: Full name, address, phone number, and email.
  • Emergency Contact: Designate a backup contact in case the caretaker is unavailable.
  • Veterinarian Contacts: List primary vet and emergency vet with contact details.
  • Alternate Caretakers: Contact information for any secondary caregivers or sitters.

  • Care Fund Details: Include any savings or funds set aside for the pet’s care.
  • Feeding and Supplies Budget: Note monthly or yearly costs for food, medications, etc.
  • Ongoing Expenses: Highlight specific costs, such as grooming, boarding, or training.
  • Instructions for Fund Management: If funds are provided, outline usage or restrictions.

  • Feeding Schedule: Times, portion sizes, and preferred food brands/types.
  • Exercise Requirements: Daily exercise routine, preferred activities, and duration.
  • Sleep Routine: Usual sleeping area and bedtime habits.
  • Behavioral Notes: Describe any quirks, habits, or behavioral needs.

  • Medications and Dosages: Details for all prescription and over-the-counter meds.
  • Supplements: List vitamins, joint supplements, or probiotics with instructions.
  • Health Monitoring: Key symptoms or conditions to monitor regularly.
  • Vet Check-Up Schedule: Note upcoming appointments or recommended frequency.

  • Favorite Toys and Comfort Items: Include toys, blankets, or beds with a familiar scent.
  • Preferred Treats: Note any favorite treat brands or types.
  • Familiar Scents or Sounds: Tips to help ease the transition (e.g., music, scents).
  • Preferred Environment: Describe any setting preferences (e.g., low noise, cozy spots).

  • Care Directive or Will Instructions: Include any specific directives for the pet’s care.
  • Pet Trust Information: Details if a pet trust has been set up, with trustee contact.
  • Caretaker’s Legal Rights: Provide any signed documents to confirm caretaker’s rights.
  • Updated Contact with Shelter/Rescue: Notify them of ownership change, if applicable.

  • Transfer of Microchip Registration: Confirm that new caretaker is registered.
  • Insurance Transfer: If insured, ensure policy updates to new owner.
  • Update ID Tags: Replace ID tags with new caretaker’s contact info.
  • Notify Vet and Suppliers: Inform vet and suppliers (e.g., food subscriptions) of change.
  • Digital Profile Update: Update digital profiles (e.g., pet portals or trackers).

This Checklist Is Summarized In The Pet Care & Legacy Worksheet

Document your pet’s habits, veterinarian information, diet, and routines, and more, making transitions easier for future caregivers.

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