For the pets who have everything… how about the idea of a Trust Fund?

Many states have passed laws that allow pet owners to set up trust funds to care for the pets after they are gone. The owners believe their wishes for their pets care will be followed if funds are set aside to do so. This is kind of laughable to most, but it happens every single day.  Americans own approimately 68 million dogs and 73 million cats, not everyone can leave trust funds, but most are likely concerned about what happens if they aren’t around anymore, and how they are cared for.

Some of the money that has been left is unbelievable and outrageous. In 1993 tobacco heiress Doris Duke left $100,000 to herShar-Pei Rodeo. Betty White is reported to have written in her will that all of her $5 million estate goes to her pets. Dusty Springfield specified that her cat Nicholas will have a lifetime supply of imported baby food which is his favorite meal.

The one that will always stand out the most is hotel heiress Leona Helmsley who reportedly left a $12 million trust for her Maltese Trouble.

There are issues with leaving trusts for pets as many courts have invalidated them. To insure the owners wishes are met in probate courts, a line or two can be added to an ordinary will where the owner can designate an amount to be spent on the pet and a trustee to carry it out under court supervision. It still doesn’t mean that the family or executor will in fact carry out the wishes.

Oh to be a dog or cat who is mentioned in a will, and taken care of for life. It makes me even sadder to think about all of the dogs and cats waiting in shelters, not expecting a trust fund, just a happy loving home.

Tags: animal welfare, cats, cats dogs, dog health, dog safety, dogs, Family Pets, pet care, pets