Estate planning and your horses/pets

[JSwan]

I put this in horse care because it's about caring for your horses.

After you die.

My friend just died.

Intestate (no will or trust)

She left no instructions for anyone.

She has a barn full of horses - some of whom are old.

I don't know what happens to us after we die, but I do know what happens to our family and friends. I saw it in my work - every day. And I see it now even though I'm retired.

They have to make decisions when they're grieving and in shock. They may be angry, confused, bereft. Often, they argue over what they think you'd want for your animals. Sometimes your animals are not considered at all - and merely hauled off.

Please don't do that do your loved ones, and don't let your horses or pets become embroiled in a tug of war. Or worse - be taken to auction or the shelter.

Please consult a licensed attorney and have your will or trust prepared.

Educate yourself on the basics of estate planning, how life insurance or other contracts pass to beneficiaries - and have your estate in order.

Review it annually or when a major event occurs (birth, death, divorce, change in other circumstances)

Please don't leave this earth without providing for your loved ones - including your animals.

You are all loved, and will be missed by someone.

And that someone is standing out in the pasture, or napping on your bed.

[SGray]

amen

[deltawave]

GREAT advice.

As a codicil (whatever that is) to my will I have a page filed (safe deposit box, husband has a copy, trustee/lawyer guy has a copy) that lays out PRECISELY what I would like done with my horses if I should die unexpectedly without time to plan. Included are my wishes (which have varied depending on the animal: sell, give away to designated person, euthanize) on what's to happen to each animal AND some resources (my trainer, horsey friends) to contact for help in actually making this happen. I keep it updated every year or so.

[Iwantapony]

Great advice. So many people think they will take care of this later, when they are older. Unexpected things can happen ~ what would happen to your horse if you died tomorrow? If you don't know, then you need to follow this advice!
I am lucky that I know exactly where mine would go, who would care for them, and how it's paid for.