Bob Barker to Present Keynote Address at Future Of Animal Law Conference
I have written on numerous occasions about the monetary generosity of
His is currently being honored for his work in the area of animal protection.
"Bob Barker, the long-time animal advocate and beloved host of
You can see the rest of the story on Mr. Barker here.
Another View on Pet Euthanasia
I recently wrote that euthanasia should be a part of your estate planning for your pets.
A reader responded with her ideas to this post:
"I would want my 14 cats euthanized if i died because
#1-they have never spent more than a few hours in a cage. I believe cages damage the spirit of animals and if they could speak English would rather be euthanized to start their spirit on a new journey!
#2- I realize that cruel people adopt animals from the shelters-never do i want my cats to suffer cruelty!!!
#3-some people loose animals. i never want my guys to EVER be lost!
I've had as many as 28 cats at one time and never had a lost one in 30 years.
Yes all of mine are neutered, get shots and vet care as needed!
I believe in humane euthanasia for feral and strays. How long could a human hang out in a cage without going bonkers? why do we think animals that sometimes have had a territory of miles and miles can do so and be healthy?
Euthanasia is a good thing and we need more vets to do it willing if that is what the owner wants!
why are humans so afraid of death? It is something everyone and everything is going to do-why not do it at a good time instead of after the suffering has set in!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Your thoughts on this difficult issue are welcome.
Use A Will Or A Pet Trust For Your Pet Estate Planning?
Should I use a will or a pet trust to plan for my dogs after I am gone?
Donna Cincinnati, Ohio
Donna, a will is a legal document that contains your instructions and wishes as to how to distribute your assets and property after your death. The person who writes a will is called a testator. The will can also appoint individual’s that can serve, if necessary, as a guardian for your minor children and nominate a personal representative to carry out the instructions of your will.
Each state has minimal legal requirements that must be followed for a will to be valid and accepted by the courts. But generally, the will must be made by a competent adult, it must be in writing and signed by the testator and witnessed by a least two other individuals and a notary.
You can include a clause for your pets in your will with the appropriate language, but you need to be fully aware of the possible limitations and drawbacks. In some circumstances, the preparation of a pet trust is more appropriate in your estate planning for your pet. Today the majority of states accept and recognize some form of a pet trust.
Planning For The Future With Pet Trusts
I have to readily admit that I am inept with Facebook and Twitter.
I can barely text.
However, I was please to be mentioned in a recent post, concerning the use of pet trusts, with the esteemed Gerry W. Beyer, the Governor Preston E. Smith Regents Professor of Law Texas Tech University.
A Facebook site called Sidewalk Dog, recently posted about planning for the future with pet trusts.
Attorney Kortney Nordrum of Minneapolis-based Nordrum Law was quoted in the post:
“The purpose of a pet trust is to create a plan for your pets in the event you are unable to care for them. Each year, many pets are euthanized because their owners have become incapable of caring for them,” Nordrum says. “Pet trusts try to keep this from happening.”
You can read the entire post and learn more on pet trusts.
