It’s a question I often ask clients when we discuss estate planning. Do you have any pets? If so, what would you like to happen to them in the event of your passing? This is a question not only for single individuals but also for couples and families even. It’s uncomfortable to think about, sure, your entire family passing away but it can and unfortunately does happen. The last thing that most people would want is for someone, such as the police, to call animal control to take your beloved pet to the local shelter to face an uncertain fate. Pets are considered property by law, though we typically think of them as family. As property under the law, they can be included in your will and transferred to the named beneficiary. Some things to consider: 1) Is the beneficiary able to take and care for your pet? 2) Are they allergic? 3) Are they prevented from having pets where they live? 4) Does the beneficiary actually want your pet? 5) Should you have one or more backup beneficiaries? 6) If you have more than one pet, do you want all of them to go to the same beneficiary? These are just some of the things to consider if you have a pet or pets want them to avoid going to a local shelter and an uncertain fate. If you’re worried about what might happen to your beloved pet, then reach out to us at info@confidantconsult.com for a consultation.