Dear Homeward Bound,
Lately it seems like a lot of people I know are worrying about what might happen to their pet if something happens to them. What is a good way to make sure your pet will be taken care of if you get sick or in an accident?
Curious
Dear Curious,
Thanks for asking this important question. It’s hard to think about but it is important that people make sure someone is aware that they have a pet that needs to be taken care of if they pass. There are different ways to do this but a good place to start is to check with friends or family to see if they are willing to assume responsibility for the pet. Some people put provisions in their wills so that there will be some money to go the person who takes on the pet.
Another route to explore is to talk with your local humane society to see if they would be willing to take the pet and find a new home. They may even be willing to act as a temporary place for the pet to stay while waiting for family to come get him or her.
It’s also a good idea to make sure you have your pet’s important papers and any care instructions written out and in an easy location to find so that he or she can continue to receive the proper care and to make it easy for the caretaker.
I hope this advice helps and, please, thank your friends for being responsible pet owners.
Jessica Danyow
Homeward Bound