There are a number of methods available to create an estate plan with consideration for the care of your pet. No matter what formal or informal method you choose, there are five general steps, courtesy of The Estate Planning for Pets Foundation, that you should take.

Step 1: Selecting a caretaker

Step 2: Compiling information about your pet and his/her care

Step 3: Making your pet and necessary information accessible

Step 4: Providing caretaking funds

Step 5: Memorializing your intentions

Additional Resources:

Frequently Asked Questions for Pet Owners

Legal resources devoted toward detailed discussion of the laws governing estate planning for pets and drafting provisions for estate planning documents.

Providing For Your Pet's Future Without You Fact Sheet