Because pets are family too
Everything You Need To Know About pet Trusts
A pet trust is a legal arrangement that ensures funds and instructions are in place to care for your pet if you’re no longer able to do so.

Section 1: Pet Trusts 101
What Is A Pet Trust?
As pet owners, we know that pets are more than just animals—they’re family. But what happens to our beloved pets if we’re no longer able to care for them? A pet trust provides a solution, offering a legally binding way to plan for your pet’s future. With a pet trust, you can designate a caregiver, set aside funds, and leave detailed instructions to ensure that your pet is looked after according to your wishes.
Setting up a pet trust is a proactive step to protect your pet’s well-being, no matter what the future holds. Whether your pet has specific medical needs, a special diet, or just a preferred daily routine, a pet trust lets you plan for all these details so they continue receiving the care and love they’re used to. This section introduces you to the concept of pet trusts and explores the benefits of formalizing your pet's care as part of your estate planning.
Why Consider A Pet Trust?
A pet trust is more than just a financial safety net; it’s a promise to your pet that their life will remain stable, even if you’re not there to care for them. Unlike informal plans, which rely on verbal agreements or non-binding instructions, a pet trust is a legally enforceable document that ensures your pet receives the care you envision. By setting up a pet trust, you avoid potential misunderstandings or financial strain on friends or family members who may unexpectedly inherit responsibility for your pet.
Planning for your pet's future through a trust allows you to provide specific guidance on their care, from favorite foods and toys to veterinary preferences and special health needs. This level of control gives you peace of mind knowing that your pet will continue to live comfortably according to the lifestyle they’re accustomed to. For pets with unique needs, such as exotic animals or those requiring ongoing medical care, a pet trust is especially beneficial, ensuring that the necessary resources are available to maintain their quality of life.
How A Pet Trust Works
Setting up a pet trust is a straightforward process that involves selecting a caregiver, assigning a trustee, and outlining specific care instructions to ensure your pet’s well-being. First, you’ll need to choose a caregiver—someone you trust to look after your pet’s daily needs. It’s a good idea to discuss this with your chosen person beforehand and even select an alternate caregiver as a backup. Next, you’ll appoint a trustee, who will be responsible for managing the funds allocated for your pet’s care and ensuring they are used according to your instructions.
Once the caregiver and trustee are in place, you can outline your pet's care details, covering everything from their medical care and dietary preferences to favorite activities and routines. You can also specify how much money should be set aside based on your pet’s expected needs and lifespan. This amount should be enough to cover essentials like food, medical expenses, and any special needs your pet may have. By including these details, you ensure that your pet receives consistent care tailored to their lifestyle, allowing them to remain happy and healthy throughout their lives.
Legal Aspects of Pet Trusts
A pet trust is a legally binding document, recognized in many states, that ensures your pet’s care according to your exact wishes. Unlike general estate planning, which may only provide informal guidance, a pet trust offers enforceable terms, obligating the appointed caregiver and trustee to fulfill your specified care plan. This formal structure provides accountability, so you can trust that funds and instructions are followed precisely, giving your pet reliable, sustained support.
Working with an attorney experienced in pet trusts can be invaluable, as they can help you navigate state-specific requirements and ensure the trust’s legal integrity. Your attorney can assist in customizing the trust, such as establishing contingency plans if the primary caregiver or trustee becomes unavailable, or adjusting the trust to cover multiple pets. With the right legal framework in place, a pet trust offers peace of mind, knowing that your pet will continue to receive care and companionship, no matter what life brings.
Section 2: Frequently Asked Questions
Section 3: Get Started With Your Pet Trust
Creating a pet trust may feel overwhelming, but with the right resources, you can set up a secure plan that protects your pet’s future. To begin, start by gathering essential information about your pet’s needs and preferences, such as medical history, diet, favorite activities, and daily routines. Next, decide who would be the ideal caregiver and trustee to manage the funds and care. Having a candid conversation with these individuals about your expectations can help ensure they’re prepared for the role.
If you’re ready to take the next step, consider consulting with an estate planning attorney who can guide you through the specifics of setting up a legally sound pet trust. Buried in Work also offers various resources and tools to help you navigate this process, including a downloadable checklist to get you organized. By setting up a pet trust, you’re taking a proactive step to guarantee that your pet will continue to be cared for with the love and attention they deserve, no matter what the future holds.
Section 4: Pet Trust Articles
Whether you’re new to pet trusts or looking to deepen your understanding, these articles cover everything from step-by-step instructions on setting up a pet trust to expert tips on selecting the right caregiver and trustee.