Pets are not property – they are family members.
Many people feel this way, but the law considers pets as property to be owned. Therefore, you cannot leave your pets an inheritance in the traditional manner, through a will.
However, you can create a trust to provide for the continued care of your animal family members in the event of your death. Such arrangements can provide incredible peace of mind to pet parents.
Important pet trust considerations
When setting up a pet trust in Minnesota, there are several key factors to consider:
Trustee selection: Choose a reliable and trustworthy individual or organization to manage the trust. Whomever you choose will be responsible for ensuring the funds are used appropriately for your pet’s care.
Funding the trust: Determine how much money it will take to cover your pet’s expenses, including food, medical care and other necessities. It is essential to be realistic about the possible costs involved.
Care instructions: Provide detailed instructions on the kind of care and attention you want your pet to receive. You can include dietary preferences, medical needs and even daily routines to ensure contentment and well-being.
Enforcement: Minnesota law allows for the appointment of an enforcer to ensure the terms of the trust are followed. For example, this can be a person or an organization dedicated to animal welfare.
Creating a pet trust is a thoughtful way to help ensure your pet’s continued care and happiness when you are no longer there to care for them. Consider speaking with a legal representative to see that your pet trust complies with state law.
