Don't Forget Fido: Why Updating Your Estate Plan Should Include Your Pets

At The Soto Law Office, we understand how important your pets are—they’re not just animals, they’re family. That’s why, when updating your estate plan, it’s essential to think beyond the basics and consider what it really takes to care for your beloved companion if you’re no longer able to do so.

Let’s say you have a lovable golden retriever named Bella. She’s been with you for ten years, and while she was once a high-energy pup happy with a tennis ball and some kibble, her needs have changed. These days, she requires special joint supplements, prescription food for allergies, and more frequent vet visits to manage arthritis and other age-related conditions.

It’s easy to overlook just how much pet care can cost—especially as our animals age. Between rising vet fees, pet insurance premiums, specialty diets, and the cost of reliable pet sitters or boarding, what once seemed like a manageable expense can become significant. Without planning ahead, whoever takes over the care of your pet could be left with a big financial responsibility.

That’s where a pet trust or detailed pet provision in your Will can make all the difference. These legal tools ensure your pet is cared for according to your wishes and that there’s enough money set aside to cover their expenses, no matter how long they live or what their care requires.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning for your pet’s future:

1. Life Expectancy Think about your pet’s age and expected lifespan. If your tabby cat Felix is only four years old, he could easily live another decade or more. That’s ten years of food, vet care, and the occasional surprise expense.

2. Aging and Medical Costs As animals get older, their healthcare needs increase. Budgeting for future medical costs—like prescription meds, special diets, or mobility aids—can help prevent financial strain on the caregiver.

3. Inflation Pet care costs are only going up. What you pay today for grooming or boarding could look very different five or ten years down the line. It’s wise to plan with inflation in mind to ensure your pet's needs are covered long-term.

4. Caregiver Support Make sure your chosen caregiver is willing and able to take on the responsibility—and give them the resources to do it well. Overfunding a pet trust slightly is better than leaving someone under-resourced when it comes to your pet’s quality of life.

Regularly reviewing your estate plan allows you to adjust funding for your pet’s future based on current needs and costs. If it’s been a while since you reviewed your Will or trust—and your pet is now older or has new health issues—it’s time to take another look.

Let us help you make sure no furry family member is forgotten. Call The Soto Law Office at (321) 972-2279 or visit www.TheSotoLawOffice.com to schedule your estate plan review. We’ll help you build peace of mind for you and a secure future for your pet.