The reality of life is that there are also times when we must pass on. This means quite often leaving dependent ones and others and may also mean leaving pets too.

Humans generally can take care of themselves and many will receive a will, money from a life insurance policy if you’re covered or otherwise. However, what happens to your pets when you pass on if they’ve no one else to care for them? In addition, the following tips also work if you’re incapacitated beforehand with a lengthy illness. Well, we’re going to take a look at what to do in such a scenario.

Will

The best thing you can do in such a case is to leave instructions for the pet’s future in your will. This can mean giving it to family and friends provided they agree, entrusting it to a pet organisation or otherwise.

There are all sorts of things that you can do with a pet when you’re not around to care for it. Of course, the options you have depend on the pet and also other external factors. However, the clearest way to ensure the pet is looked after beyond you being there is by organising for it beforehand in a clear manner.

Trust

It’s possible to leave a trust in your Will to take care of the animal and as bizarre as that may sound to some, it’s commonly done. You will need to specify a trustee to take care of the money and it can be structured to provide care for the pet even if you’re ill beforehand for a long period of time.

Insurance

Even though life insurance policies will pay out to members of your family when you pass on, pets are different. However, there are some pet insurance policies out there that will allow you to leave money for the care of a pet. These policies will offer insurance cover and care for the pet in some form of trust or other similar offering and upon your death the animal will be looked after.

Euthanasia

Some people don’t want their pet left after they die and don’t have the heart to leave it entrusted with a kennel or other home. This means that they prefer to have it euthanized upon their death. However, some legal systems will rule this invalid if it’s in the will if the animal is young or in good health. However, for older or ill dogs it can work well and be of benefit. For instance if the dog is ill and the caregiver doesn’t have the money or ability to take care of it.

These tips will help give you an insight into the ways you can deal with your dog when you pass on.