Dear Friend,
Let me tell you a remarkable story about a man named Harold and his beloved pet, Franklin. Franklin wasn’t just any pet—he was a turtle, and not just any turtle. Franklin had been in Harold’s family for over a century, passed down from one generation to the next. This extraordinary creature lived well beyond the lifespan of any human who had ever cared for him. When Franklin first joined Harold’s family, the world looked very different, but Franklin’s needs remained the same—food, water, and, most importantly, love and care.
Franklin was more than just a pet to Harold. He was a part of the family legacy, a constant through generations of change. Over the years, Harold told his children and grandchildren stories about how Franklin had been passed down from their great-grandparents and how he’d been a part of every family holiday, every birthday, and every gathering for as long as anyone could remember.
But when Harold reached his later years, he began to wonder—who would take care of Franklin when he was no longer around? He wanted to make sure Franklin wouldn’t be left to fend for himself or end up in the wrong hands. Harold had spent decades caring for Franklin and wanted to be absolutely certain that his cherished pet would continue to live in comfort and love for the rest of his long life.
This is the kind of situation many pet owners face, especially those who know their beloved animals could outlive them—whether it’s a long-living turtle like Franklin, a parrot, or even a horse. Our pets are family. They give us unconditional love and companionship, and they deserve to be well cared for, even after we’re gone.
This is where Bascom Law can step in. We can help you create a pet trust, a legally binding plan that ensures your pets will continue to receive the care they need when you’re no longer there to provide it. Just like Harold did for Franklin, you can make sure your pets—whether they’re dogs, cats, turtles, or birds—are cared for exactly as you wish. You can even allocate funds for their ongoing care, specify a caregiver, and make sure your wishes for your pets are honored.
Why is this so important? Without a clear plan in place, your pets’ future may be uncertain. Pets are often forgotten in the estate planning process, leaving them vulnerable to neglect, abandonment, or being rehomed to someone who doesn’t understand their needs. And, as any pet owner knows, these animals rely on us for everything. They can’t advocate for themselves—they need you to advocate for them, even after you’re gone.
At Bascom Law, we take pet care seriously because we understand just how important these companions are to you and your family. Just like Franklin, your pets can live long, healthy lives with the right plan in place. Whether you’re thinking about your dog’s special diet, your parrot’s need for daily interaction, or your turtle’s decades-long lifespan, we can help you ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Your pets give you unconditional love and loyalty. The least we can do is make sure they’re protected when you can’t be there to do it yourself.
Just like Harold ensured Franklin would live out his long life in peace and comfort, you can do the same for your pets. At Bascom Law, we’re here to help you build a plan that guarantees your pets will be treated with the love and care they deserve. You’ve spent a lifetime looking after them—let us help you make sure they’ll always be taken care of, even after you’re gone.
Call us today at 770-285-5493 to schedule a consultation, and let’s make sure your cherished companions have the protection and care they need, long into the future.
Sincerely and Thanks,
Mike
Mike Bascom
Bascom Law, PC
Estate Planning & Elder Law