Do you have a beloved furry member of the family? Have you made arrangements for who takes care of them in case something happens to you? Read on to find out how you can provide for your pets if something happens to you if you become incapacitated. 

Providing for Pets in Case of Incapacity

Having a Power of Attorney for Property (“POAP”) in place is an excellent way to provide for your pet’s care in case you become unable to care for them during your lifetime. Your POAP is a legal document authorizing someone to act as your attorney for property (the “attorney”). Your attorney can do anything you could do with your property, finances and other assets other than execute a will.

Through your POAP, you can even include a care management plan. The care management plan could provide instructions on:

• The name of the person(s) or organization lined up to care for your pet;

• Specific funds for the pet’s care;

• Important information about your pet such as:

• Dietary needs;

• Medical conditions; and

• Behavioural concerns.

Your attorney will follow your POAP and provide for your pet’s care accordingly, provided you are able to afford it.

If something sudden happens to you, no one may realize right away who to contact to care for your pet. If this is a concern, consider also a wallet card. These cards alert first responders that you have a pet home alone. The card should provide basics about your pet and the contact information for the person designated to care for them in the case of an emergency.

Have you thought about what will happen to your pet if you are not alive? Click here to learn more about how you can provide for the care of your pet in your Will.

This article is meant to provide a brief overview of how you can make arrangements to provide for your pets if you become incapable and does not constitute legal advice. If you require legal advice, please contact us.