Dear Friend,

You love your pets — they’re family. But If something happened to you today… who would take care of them?

I’m not talking about for the afternoon — I’m talking about for life. Who knows what kind of food they eat? Their vet’s name? What medications they’re on?

For so many pet owners, the answer is: “I have no idea.”

And that’s a problem. Because if you pass away or even end up in the hospital unexpectedly, your pets could end up neglected, sent to a shelter, or worse — simply because no one knew what to do.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

Let me show you how to create a simple, effective Pet Emergency Plan — one that makes sure your furry friends are loved and cared for, no matter what happens to you.

The Harsh Reality — What Happens When You Don’t Plan

Every year, thousands of pets end up in shelters after their owners pass away or become incapacitated — not because no one wanted them, but because no one knew they existed or how to care for them.

Even in families, there are horror stories:

  • Pets left alone in homes for days or weeks before anyone realized something was wrong.
  • Relatives rehoming pets to strangers because they didn’t know what to do.
  • Animals with specific medical needs who didn’t get proper care and suffered as a result.

It’s heartbreaking. But the good news is, with a little planning, this can all be avoided.

Creating Your Pet Emergency Plan

Here’s how to make sure your pets are protected, no matter what happens.

  1. Identify Your Pet’s Caregivers — Primary AND Backup
  • Choose someone you trust to take your pets if something happens to you.
  • Talk to them first — don’t just assume they’ll be willing or able.
  • Pick a backup caregiver too, in case your first choice can’t step in.

If no one in your family or friend circle can take them, research local pet rescue groups that offer long-term fostering in these situations.

  1. Write Down ALL the Details

Most people know what their pets need… but no one else does.

Create a Pet Care Information Sheet that includes:

  • Vet’s Name and Number: Who should they call in an emergency?
  • Diet Details:
    • What food do they eat?
    • How much?
    • Any allergies?
  • Medications:
    • Names, dosages, and when to give them.
    • Special instructions (with or without food, etc.)
  • Routines:
    • Walk times, favorite toys, fears (storms, strangers, etc.).
  • Behavioral Notes:
    • Are they good with kids? Other pets? Any aggression issues?

This document should be easily accessible — in a folder at home, and digitally shared with your chosen caregivers.

  1. Set Up Financial Support

Caring for a pet can get expensive — especially if they need medication or special care.

  • Consider setting aside funds specifically for your pet’s future care.
  • You can create a Pet Trust that legally ensures money is allocated for your pet’s food, vet bills, and other needs — and that the caregiver can’t misuse it.
  1. Make It Legal — Include Your Pets in Your Estate Plan

Here’s something most people don’t know: under the law, pets are considered property — just like your car or house.

This means that if you don’t specifically include them in your estate plan, they could end up anywhere.

  • Call my office, and we’ll help ensure your trust legally names who will care for your pets.
  • Outline the financial support for that caregiver and set clear instructions about your wishes.

A Real-Life Story — The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

I worked with a client who had three cats — all older, with special diets and medication needs.

She passed away unexpectedly, and here’s what happened:

  • Her family didn’t know about the medication schedules. One of the cats missed crucial doses and got sick.
  • No one knew her vet’s contact information, delaying treatment even further.
  • It took over a week before the family realized one of the cats was diabetic and needed daily insulin.

All of this could have been avoided with a simple, clear plan.

Emergency Situations — It’s Not Just About Death

This isn’t just about passing away.

What if you’re in a car accident and hospitalized for weeks? Or you develop a health condition that prevents you from caring for your pets?

Having a plan ensures that even temporary emergencies don’t leave your pets stranded.

I recommend creating a “Pet Alert” card for your wallet that says something like:

“I have pets at home that need care. Please contact [Caregiver’s Name & Phone Number].”

This way, first responders know to check on your animals if something happens to you.

Give Your Pets the Security They Deserve

You wouldn’t leave your kids without a plan, right? Your pets deserve the same care and attention.

At Bascom Law, I help families create comprehensive estate plans — and yes, that includes your four-legged family members.

If you want to make sure your pets are loved and cared for no matter what happens to you, let’s talk.

Call me today at 770-285-5493 to schedule a consultation.

Because your pets depend on you — even when you’re not there.

Sincerely and Thanks,

Mike Bascom
Bascom Law, PC