Required Reading For Pet Parents: If I Should Die Before My Dog

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Is your dog in your will?If I Should Die Before My Doghelps pet parents plan for their dog’s future in their will.

As pet parents, we know that there’s a good chance that we’ll outlive our furry kids. We make the most of the time we’re given with them. But what would happen if you died first? Getting your affairs in order is just another part of being an adult. We don’t want to think about it, but it’s important to allocate your belongings when you pass away. Aside from the normal financial and beneficial jargon that goes into a will, you also need to think about what will happen to your dog if you’re not around to take care of him.

Related:Gracie’s Law Says Dogs More Than Property

Recently, we became aware of a book called If I Should Die Before My Dog, written by Cathy and Joe Connolly. It helps pet parents prepare for the instance where they can no longer care for their pet. If health issues or death render your pooch an orphan, you want to put a plan in place for your dog. By including details as to what should happen in case of death or illness, this part of the will can tell your pet’s story and outline the plan and care for the future.

Related:The P.E.T.S. Plan – Four Steps To Divorcing With Pets

ADVERTISEMENT

Here are a few tips from the book that you should consider when writing your will, as it pertains your dog:

  • Primary Caregiver : When designing a will for your pet, make sure to name caregivers. Essentially, the idea is to come up with Godparents for the pet just in case. Pick someone close to you who knows and gets along well with the dog. It needs to be someone who is willing to take over care for the dog and give them a happy home for the rest of their lives.
  • Money Matters : How will you provide for your pet in this situation? Are you leaving them money in the will or will the new guardian take over the majority of the financial burden? For your peace of mind, you should make sure there are sufficient funds available for your dog’s care.
  • Your Pet’s Story: When you update your will, be sure to have a frequently updated description of your pet’s story, as well as their needs and any other important information.
  • Write It Down : Make sure that anything you’ve decided to do is compiled into a legal document. This will make it straight forward and keep it simple for everyone involved. By making it legal, you will ensure that the plan in place is followed, and the money left to care for your dog will go where it’s supposed to.

If I Die Before My Dog is available on Amazon, and is a valuable tool for outlining the essential processes for pet parents. We know that it’s a downer, but nobody can predict the future, and we owe it to our pets to be responsible in planning for the unplanned.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Discussing The Truth About Cat Food

Do you really know what goes into your cat''s food? We chatted with the folks at TruthAboutPetFood.com to learn more about what our cats are eating.
Japanese Bobtail

The Japanese Bobtail is a sociable, active breed known for its excellent health. They like to be with their humans regardless of the activity at hand.
Batfish

Batfish are a family of marine fish, similar in appearance but unrelated to the angelfish. Juveniles are characterized by their bat-like side profile.
How to Clicker Train Your Cat

You''ve heard about clicker training for dogs, but did you know that it''s used to train cats? Here are some tips if you''re going to clicker train your cat.
Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is fun-loving and mischievous. He is a formidable hunter, pointer, swimmer and retriever as well as an awesome family companion.
DIY Itch Relief Spray for Dogs

For this efficient natural anti-itch dog spray, you''ll need just 3 ingredients that you already have in your pantry and less than 15 minutes of your time.
Top 10 Stocking Stuffers For Pets

‘Tis the season and you know Santa Paws is stuffing those stockings with the good stuff. Well, you hope he is, that is, so take a look at our Top Ten Stocking Stuffers sure to be a hit this holiday season!
Treeing Tennessee Brindle

If you are looking for an intelligent dog with a unique appearance and advanced hunting skills, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle may be the right dog for you.
5 Big Differences Between Cats and Dogs

Although cats and dogs are the most popular pets, there are some major differences between the two species, and understanding them will prepare you to be a great guardian to your canine or feline companion.
Tibetan Spaniel

He may be small, but don''t be fooled - the alert Tibetan Spaniel will stand on guard and let you know if a stranger is getting too close to your home.
Argentine Snake-Necked Turtle

The Argentine Snake-Necked Turtle, one of the two South American Snake-Necked Turtle breeds, is a unique breed of aquatic turtle named for its long neck.
Yoga and Cats: The Benefits of Asana With Kitties

While you''re doing the downward dog pose, does your cat ever join you? Here''s why you should let your kitty join you for yoga.
What Causes Diarrhea in Cats?

Diarrhea in cats can signal a host of health or diet issues. To ensure your kitty gets the help she needs, here''s what you need to know about diarrhea in cats.
Biewer Terrier

Small and adorable, the Biewer Terrier was bred from Yorkshire Terriers so it shares many of the same lovable characteristics of this popular breed.
Drever

The Drever is a talented hunting dog known for his keen nose and strong work ethic. Even though this dog is known for hunting, he''s amenable to family life.