The matter of estate planning for pets may seem like something that is the domain of the extravagant rich and famous. It is true that celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Betty White are said to have estate plans that include millions of dollars for their pampered dogs. However, when you look at the subject objectively, you can see that pet planning can be useful for some everyday people. Companionship and Purpose As elder law attorneys, we work with many older clients that have lost loved … [Read more...] about Dog Ownership, Seniors, and Pet Planning
Pet Planning
What is a Pet Trust and Why Would I Need One?
Many pet owners are under the impression that they can name their pet in their will like any other beneficiary and provide some money for them to be cared for. That is not the case. Pets are considered property under the law, so they cannot “inherit” money from you, as some people assume. This means that, even with a detailed provision in your will for your pet, you may not be securing your pet’s future as well as you might think. If you want to guarantee that your family friend will be … [Read more...] about What is a Pet Trust and Why Would I Need One?
How Pet Trusts Can Protect Your Family Friend
Long Beach residents may be saddened to hear about the abuse and neglect of animals, but according to a recent article, a terrier-poodle mix named Chloe was found beaten and tied up in a trash bag, discarded in a dumpster in Long Beach. When she was rescued, she underwent a successful surgery to realign her fractured femur and implant a titanium plate to support her leg during recovery. Long Beach Animal Emergency officials stated that she will probably need two additional months of physical … [Read more...] about How Pet Trusts Can Protect Your Family Friend
Do You Need a Pet Trust for Your Family Friend?
Contrary to what many people think, you cannot simply leave money to your pet in your will. Pets are considered property under the law, so they cannot “inherit” money from you, as some people assume. Yet, even with a detailed provision in your will for your pet, you may not be securing your pet’s future as well as you might think. If you want to guarantee that your family friend will be properly cared for after your death, you should seriously consider a pet trust. Our Los Angeles estate … [Read more...] about Do You Need a Pet Trust for Your Family Friend?
Long Beach Residents Can Create Pet Trusts
Contrary to what Long Beach residents may believe, you cannot simply leave money to your pet in your will. Pets are considered property under the law, so they cannot “inherit” money from you, as some people assume. Yet, even with a detailed provision in your will for your pet, you may not be securing your pet’s future as well as you might think. If you want to guarantee that your family friend will be properly cared for after your death, you should seriously consider a pet trust. How does a … [Read more...] about Long Beach Residents Can Create Pet Trusts
The Basics of Pet Planning California
Pet owners should not overlook the need to include pet planning in their overall estate plan. If you pass away without a pet plan, the consequences are not good. Unfortunately, you cannot simply name a beneficiary for your pet. Instead, more specific plans need to be made to ensure that the caregiver will be legally bound by the terms you set, and the financial support needed to care for your pet will be secure. If you are wondering, what should a pet plan include, let our trust attorneys … [Read more...] about The Basics of Pet Planning California
Check Out the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services for a New Pet
If you are not familiar with the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services, its mission is to “Promote and Protect the Health, Safety and Welfare of Animals and People in the City of Los Angeles.” The department offers a wide range of services related to adopting pets, finding lost pets, licensing animals as required, animal vaccinations. The Department of Animal Services can also provide spaying and neutering, and microchipping. Looking for a new pet or to rescue a needy animal? The Los … [Read more...] about Check Out the Los Angeles Department of Animal Services for a New Pet
Los Angeles Clear the Shelters Event Helps Pets Find Homes
Earlier this summer, the Citadel Outlets in Los Angeles hosted the Clear the Shelters event where many animals were available for same day adoptions at reduced adoption rates. The 2016 Clear the Shelters event is the second year of this highly successful effort to find homes for pets all over Southern California. Last year, the even led to over 2,500 pets finding new homes. All of the participating animal shelters in Southern California offer a reduced adoption fee of $20. NBC4 and … [Read more...] about Los Angeles Clear the Shelters Event Helps Pets Find Homes
Wills and Pet Estate Planning
It wasn’t very long ago that the idea of including family pets in an estate plan was and odd idea. Times have certainly changed. A survey conducted back in 2006 shows that nearly 70% of families consider their pets as family members, not property. Unfortunately, the law still considers pets to be property, which means estate planning attorneys have become efficient at creating ways to provide for these beloved “family members” in the best way legally possible. Different methods have different … [Read more...] about Wills and Pet Estate Planning
Consequences of Not Having a Pet Plan
Pet owners know the important role their beloved pets play in their lives and the lives of their families. When a pet has been a part of your family for many years, it is important to consider the future of your pet, should you become incapacitated or pass away, and your pet survives you. In order to understand the importance of prior planning, you must understand the consequences of not having a pet plan in place, upon your death. Where does your pet go after your death? If you do not have … [Read more...] about Consequences of Not Having a Pet Plan
