What is a Pet Trust?
A Pet Trust is a legal document that allows you to make sure your pet is taken care in the event of your disability or death. The Trust can be a part of your Will, an addition to your Will, if you already have one (called a codicil) or a document that stands apart from your Will and can in effect in the event of your disability. Pet trusts are a new avenue available in Virginia to help you care for your pets when you cannot do so directly.
Why do I need a Pet Trust?
Creating a Pet Trust allows you to select who will care for your pet. It also allows you to make financial arrangements and control what will happen to your pet upon your disability or death.
What can I do with a Pet Trust?
We will tailor your individual Pet Trust to your needs. We will help you to designate all aspects related to your Pet Trust, including:
- naming the trustee to care for your pet
- determining when and how to fund the trust
- naming a trustee to watch over the funds set aside for your pet's care
- naming a beneficiary for the funds once the funds are no longer needed for your pet's care, such as a favorite animal charity or shelter, or other persons
- specific concerns about care for your pet
