In California, especially in Los Angeles, as practically everywhere else in the country, people are very concerned for their pets welfare. I am frequently drafting provisions for the care of pets after the death of their human caretaker.

Frequently the most difficult step is finding a caretaker. Obviously, you want someone who is able and who would happily undertake the responsibility of caring for your pet(s). Friends and relatives may like your pets, but that does not necessarily mean that they are ready to be their fulltime caretakers.

In the event that you do not have someone that would be suitable, there are organizations throughout Los Angeles that will undertake the responsibility. More than likely there will be a fee involved and you should investigate what it will cost to provide for your pet for the remainder of its life.

As with humans, you will want to provide your pet’s caretaker with complete information. For example are there registration papers? Can you provide a description of your pet? Markings? DNA identification? What about its medical history? Medical conditions? Diet? Exercise? Does your pet get along with certain types of people? Does your pet dislike certain types of people or animals?

Adding provisions for your pet’s care after you are gone is not that difficult for an experienced estate planning attorney/lawyer especially one that prepares a fair amount of living trusts. For more information on California pet trusts, contact a Los Angeles estate planning attorney and/or a lawyer who prepares many living trusts and wills.