Compare the Pet Trusts: Pros & Cons
| In the Will | Attorney writes from Scratch | Pet Protection Agreement |
|---|---|---|
| Pros • Easy: one sentence does it Cons • Must wait for the reading of the Will • Not enforceable during the pet owner’s life • Valid only after the pet owner’s death • Instructions are not binding • Can’t guarantee to keep pets together • Not signed by the pet guardian • Doesn’t ensure funds are used for animals • Various parts are valid in various states at various times |
Pros • May be enforceable during the pet owner’s lifetime • Care instructions are binding • May keep pets together • May be signed by a pet guardian • Must include funds Cons • Must pay a private attorney • Various parts are valid in various states at various times • May not include unnamed or future animals |
Pros • Can complete without an attorney • Simple & affordable • Legal in all 50 states • Does not vary from state to state • Valid during the pet owner’s lifetime • Valid after the pet owner’s death • Instructions are binding and enforceable • Includes all pets now and in the future • Keeps Pets Together - if you wish • Standard of care is ongoing • Identifies who the owner is • Signed by the pet guardian • Funds are optional • If funds are included, they must be used as directed • May leave unlimited funds • Beneficiaries named |