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Unsworth LaPlante, PLLC

Vermont Estate Planning Attorneys

Vermont: (802) 879-7133

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Home » Resources » Frequently Asked Questions » Pet Planning FAQs

Pet Planning FAQs

    • Can you leave money to your pet in your will?Can you leave money to your pet in your will?

    • Under the laws of the states of Vermont where we have offices, animals cannot own property. As a result, you cannot bequeath assets of any kind to your pet in a will.

    • Can you leave a pet to someone?

    • Yes, you can leave your pet to an inheritor if you create a last will. This being stated, you should be aware of the fact that it is possible for someone to refuse an inheritance. For this reason, you should be sure that the person that you have in mind is ready, willing, and able to care for the pet.

    • So, can you give the caretaker an inheritance that will be used for the care of the pet?

    • The answer is yes, with an asterisk. You can leave someone money along with instructions to use the money to care for the pet. However, once the caretaker receives the inheritance, these instructions would not be legally enforceable.

    • Is there a better solution?

    • Yes, it is possible to establish a pet trust for the benefit of your fine furry friend.

    • How does it work?

    • You convey funds into the trust, and you name a person or an entity like a trust company or bank to act as the trustee. When you are establishing the trust, you would leave behind instructions with regard to the way that you want the pet to be cared for after you are gone.

      The trustee would be legally compelled to follow your instructions as they are stated in the trust declaration. It should be noted that the trustee could be the person that actually cares for the pet on a day-to-day basis, but this is not necessary.

    • What happens if there are assets left in the trust after the pet dies?

    • This is another area that is covered when you establish a pet trust. In the trust document, you would name a successor beneficiary that would assume ownership of any assets that remain in the trust after the passing of the animal.

    • How can I learn more about pet trusts?

    • We have prepared an in-depth special report that you can access to gain additional information about pet trusts. It is being offered free of charge, and it is contained within a library of other special reports that you can access as well. You can see all the titles if you visit our special reports page.

Schedule a Consultation!

You can get all the information that you need to make informed decisions on this website, but at some point, direct action is required. Our firm would be more than glad to gain an understanding of your overall estate planning objectives and explain your options to you.

If you decide to go forward, we will help you create a custom crafted estate plan that is ideal for you, your family, and your pet or pets. We can be reached by phone at 802-879-7133 in Vermont. There is also a contact form on this website that you can use to send us a message.

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Essex Junction, VT

26 Railroad Ave
Essex Junction, VT 05452
United States (US)
Phone: (802) 879-7133
Fax: (802) 879-0408

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Monday8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

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