According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, over 62 percent of households in the United States have at least one pet. As the number of pet owners in Maryland increases, Maryland has made advancements to ensure the safety and care for its pet residents. In Maryland, although pets are not afforded the same rights and liberties as humans, they are no longer considered mere property.
If you are like many pet owners, you may find yourself wondering what will happen to your pet when you pass away. You may also want to know what you can do to make sure your pet is provided for no matter what happens to you in the future. Obtaining a Maryland Pet Trust may be your best option to ensure that your pet will be cared for throughout your pet’s life.
Creating a Maryland Pet Trust in Montgomery County, Maryland or Prince George’s County, Maryland
To create a pet trust in Maryland you must gather all available information for your pet. This should include photos, microchip information, detailed physical description, and other trackable information for your pets.
You will need to appoint a caregiver for your loved ones. You should take the time to talk with the people who you are thinking about appointing as caregivers, It is important that you confirm that they are willing and able to take care of your animals. You will also need a trustee. The trustee manages the funds in the trust and should check in on your pet from time-to-time. The best option is to have different people as the caregiver and the trustee, so you have a checks-and-balance system in place.
You also may want to include a provision about any pets that you may acquire after the pet trust is completed to avoid needing to make updates.
The last part of creating a pet trust in Maryland is deciding the amount of money that you should put in the trust. The amount you should put into the fund should be a ‘reasonable’ amount. This will depend on the type of pets you have, their health, age, and the lifestyle that your pets are used to.
Creating and funding a Maryland pet trust is a great way to make sure that your pets are taken care of after your death. Like other parts of creating your will, you need to be very specific about your wishes for your animal’s care.
Speak an Estate Planning Attorney About Creating A Maryland Pet Trust In Prince George’s County, Maryland and Montgomery County, Maryland
Are you considering creating a trust for your pet in Maryland? Contact the Law Office of LaSheena Williams today if you are interested in figuring out the next crucial steps to protect your pet’s welfare. If you have concerns about caring for your pet’s needs or any other estate planning questions feel free to contact our office. You can reach the Law Office of LaSheena M. Williams, LLC through our contact page or at (301) 778 – 9950. We look forward to working with you and your pet.
