Creative Estate Planning Ideas to Protect Your Pet

For many of us, pets aren’t just animals. They’re members of our family. They bring companionship, comfort, and that oh-so-sweet, unconditional love. So it’s only natural to want to ensure they’re cared for if something happens to us.

During a recent discussion with advisors on the Trust & Will Contributor Panel, I heard some remarkable stories that highlight just how creative (and thoughtful) clients are getting when it comes to planning for their furry, feathered, and even scaly loved ones.

Planning for Long-Lived Companions

Some pets live well beyond our own lifespans. It’s a reality that can easily be overlooked.

Charles Thomas III, CFP®, Founder of Intrepid Eagle Finance, shared a story that stopped everyone in their tracks:

“A family I work with has two tortoises that are expected to live at least another 100 years,” he explained. “Their trust actually accounts for that. If the kids don’t want to keep the tortoises, the plan directs them to a wildlife preserve, with a built-in charitable donation to help fund their care.”

It’s an incredible example of foresight. By incorporating a $10,000–$15,000 charitable bequest for the preserve, this family ensured their pets’ well-being while supporting a cause that aligns with their values. I don’t know about you, but I consider this a perfect mix of planning and purpose.

For long-lived animals like tortoises, parrots, or koi fish, a plan should include:

• A designated caregiver (or organization) with the right expertise

• Funding for ongoing care and habitat needs

• Backup instructions if the original caregiver can’t step in

Creating a “Care Circle” Instead of a Single Caregiver

Another creative approach came from Al Faber, CFP®, Founder of DIWY Financial Planning, who shared a story about a neighbor and their koi fish:

“Their koi group actually has cross-agreements,” Al said. “If an owner passes away or can’t care for their fish, another member takes them in. They’ve already planned who gets which fish.”

This “care circle” model works beautifully for clients who have unique pets or a strong community of fellow owners. It adds flexibility and reassurance that if one caregiver’s situation changes, others can step up.

If your client travels frequently, has exotic pets, or simply wants to make sure no one feels overwhelmed, consider helping them list two or three potential caregivers and document each person’s willingness and role.

Pairing Care Instructions with the Right Funding

Even the most low-maintenance pets come with costs. Food, boarding, veterinary care, and grooming can add up quickly. For pets that live decades, the numbers multiply.

Advisors can help clients explore options like:

• Pet trusts, which legally set aside funds for the pet’s benefit, name a trustee, and specify how money should be used.

• Designated gifts with a care memo, which leave a fixed amount to a caregiver along with written guidance for day-to-day routines.

• Charitable bequests, which direct a donation to a rescue or sanctuary if that organization will provide care.

A quick back-of-the-napkin calculation (annual care costs × lifespan, plus a cushion for emergencies) helps clients decide how much funding makes sense.

Don’t Forget the “How,” Not Just the “Who”

The most successful pet plans go beyond naming a caregiver. They detail the how:

• Feeding schedule, medications, and allergies

• Vet contact information and medical history

• Habits, commands, and comfort items

• Boarding or walking preferences

• Emergency contacts and transport instructions

Encourage clients to store these notes digitally alongside their estate-planning documents, e.g. in their vault within the Trust & Will portal, so they’re easy to access and update.

Helping Clients Take the First Step

Many clients delay planning for pets simply because they’re unsure where to begin. As Al put it, “Pets are like kids, you have to plan for them too.”

Advisors can make it easier by providing a short checklist, linking them to a secure planning portal, or sharing real stories like these that make the process feel approachable and important.

The Bottom Line

Whether it’s a loyal dog, a pair of koi, or a century-old tortoise, thoughtful estate planning ensures every member of the family (no matter how many legs or fins) is protected.

The key is blending people, place, and provisions: trusted caregivers, a reliable backup plan, and clear funding and instructions. When clients take that extra step, they aren’t just safeguarding assets, they’re protecting love that lasts a lifetime (or, in some cases, several).

Diana Cabrices is the founder and chief executive officer of Diana Cabrices Consulting and acting chief evangelist at Trust & Will, an estate planning platform.

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