What Can a Pet Attorney Do for You and Your Pet?
Pet owners generally believe nothing will happen to them where their pets will be left to fend for themselves. Sadly, nothing is ever guaranteed, and whether it is a natural disaster, a disabling injury, accident, or death, there are instances where unexpected events happen that affect a pet owner’s ability to care for their pets. As a result, loved pets may be left behind with no one to care for them.
The good news is that through the estate planning process, pet parents can incorporate protections for pets that will ensure they are safeguarded and taken care of should something happen. Peggy Hoyt and Michelle Gumula, both recognized as Oviedo pet attorneys at the Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan are here for you and ready to help you take control of your pet’s future and keep them safe no matter what life throws at you.
Main Benefits of Working with a Pet Attorney
How you care for your pet, understand their specialized needs and the way you are familiar with their personalities and quirks are all unique to your bond with your pet. Another caregiver may have good intentions, but for a variety of reasons, not be able to fully take care of your pet the way you would want. This is where an Oviedo pet attorney at the Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan can help. Pet parents who plan for their pets’ lifetime love and care can feel assured their pets will be properly looked after if unanticipated situations arise.
There are several ways The Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan and their noted Oviedo pet attorneys can assist pet parents, including:
- Provide guidance to pet parents on what actions should be taken in advance of any potential catastrophic life events. This would include having pet owners consider individuals or organizations they would like to take over the role of pet caregiver should death or incapacity happen. This also involves speaking with these individuals or organizations to ensure they are on the same page and then giving them access to the home and the pets.
- Provide advice on what should be included in written pet care instructions, what we refer to as “baby sitter” instructions. You should have detailed information and guidance on how to care for your pet, including what food they eat, their veterinarian’s information, and more.
- Recommend estate planning options available to respect a pet owner’s wishes concerning the lifetime love and care of their pet. Typically, the most sound action is to create an estate plan that includes a pet trust. A pet trust not only allows for funds to be allocated for a pet and provides comprehensive guidance on their care, but it also has oversight and protections in place so pet owners will know their wishes and instructions are followed and their pet is being treated the way they expect.
- Provide pet dispute resolution services. Divorces and other relationships that end where pets are involved can become contentious, with both sides unwilling to give up a shared pet. An animal attorney can act as an advocate and help resolve issues and even establish a shared pet care agreement that works for everyone.
- Be an advocate for animals and be committed to protecting their welfare and their rights.
- Prepare and file legal documents.
- Assist pet owners in determining how much money is needed to fully provide for the lifetime love and care for their pets.
Speak to a Pet Attorney in Florida Today
If you would like assistance with your estate plan and want it to encompass all of your loved ones, especially your pets, call an Oviedo, FL, pet trust attorney at the Law Offices of Hoyt & Bryan, LLC today to schedule a Discovery and Decision Dialogue. Other helpful resources include, All My Children Wear Fur Coats – How to Leave a Legacy for Your Pet, now in its third edition by attorney, Peggy Hoyt (available on Amazon or signed editions through our office), Peggy’s weekly Pawcast, All My Children Wear Fur Coats (available on Buzzsprout or wherever you get your favorite podcasts) and visit Animal Care Trust USA, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping loved pets in loving homes.
