Q1: What is a pet trust?
A: A pet trust is a legally enforceable arrangement that provides for the care and financial support of your pets if you become incapacitated or pass away. It allows you to designate a caregiver, set funds aside for your pet’s needs, and ensure that your wishes for their care are legally protected. At Boyd & Boyd, P.C., we help clients create pet trusts that offer peace of mind and security for their beloved animals.
Q2: Why should I create a pet trust instead of just leaving instructions in my will?
A: Wills are important but may not take effect immediately — and they do not provide ongoing oversight or guaranteed funding for pet care. A pet trust becomes effective if you become incapacitated and continues after your death. It ensures continuous, court-recognized care for your pet without delays or legal uncertainties.
Q3: What can a pet trust pay for?
A: A pet trust can cover a wide range of expenses, including:
- Veterinary care and insurance
- Food and grooming
- Boarding and pet-sitting
- Special medical treatments
- End-of-life expenses (such as burial or cremation)
You can be as detailed as you wish about the standard of care you expect for your pet.
Q4: How much money should I leave in a pet trust?
A: The amount depends on factors such as your pet’s expected lifespan, medical needs, and standard of care. We help clients estimate a reasonable amount that covers basic and special needs without creating legal issues (for example, an excessive amount could be challenged in probate court).
Q5: How can Boyd & Boyd, P.C. help with pet trusts?
A: We create fully customized pet trusts tailored to your specific animals, wishes, and family situation. We help you select caregivers, allocate funding appropriately, and provide detailed instructions — ensuring that your pets continue to receive the same love and attention you would have given them yourself.
Should Ask Questions (SAQs)
Q1: Who should I name as the caregiver and trustee of the pet trust?
A: Ideally, the caregiver is someone who knows and loves your pet — but you should also name a backup. The trustee manages the funds and ensures they are used properly for your pet’s care. The caregiver and trustee can be the same person, or different people for greater checks and balances.
Q2: Can a pet trust cover more than one pet?
A: Yes. A single pet trust can be set up to cover multiple pets, including specifying care instructions for each individual animal. We help ensure the trust terms are flexible enough to adapt as your pet family changes.
Q3: What happens if there are leftover funds after my pet passes away?
A: You can specify in your trust who should receive any remaining funds — often a family member, a charity, or a pet-related organization. We help clients structure these “remainder beneficiary” provisions clearly and thoughtfully.
Q4: Are there alternatives to a full pet trust?
A: Yes. For simpler situations, a will provision or informal care agreement may be sufficient. However, only a formal pet trust guarantees legal enforcement and continuity if you become incapacitated. We help you evaluate the best option based on your goals.
Q5: When should I set up a pet trust?
A: As soon as possible. Unexpected illness or accidents can happen at any time. Setting up a pet trust now ensures that your pets are protected — with no gaps in care — no matter what the future holds.
Your pets are family — make sure they’re protected with the same love and care you give them today.
Schedule a confidential consultation with Boyd & Boyd, P.C. to create a Pet Trust that provides lifetime protection for your loyal companions.
Book Your Pet Trust Consultation or Request Our Free Pet Trust Planning Guide.
