Meet Montgomery – though around the office we call him Monty! This sweet little rescue has quickly become part of our team, and we love having him here every day. Monty may be small, but his personality (and his enthusiasm for greeting visitors) is anything but.
Monty is a certified therapy dog through Canine Inspired Change and will be in the office most days. While he is learning proper office etiquette, he will not always be available to sit in on meetings – but eventually we plan to have him available to offer clients support, a calming presence and even some comedic relief during what can be heavy conversations.
As a rescue dog, Monty knows he’s found his forever home with Schromen Law Founder, Rachel Schromen. And like any responsible pet owner, she has made sure his future is protected with planning! After all, pets are family – and they deserve the same thoughtful planning as the rest of our loved ones.
What Is a Pet Care Plan?
A pet care plan is a set of instructions included in your estate planning documents that ensures your pets will be cared for if you pass away or become unable to care for them yourself.
These plans are often included in your will or trust through what’s called a pet clause.
A pet clause allows you to:
- Appoint a caregiver who will take responsibility for your pet
- Provide guidance about your pet’s care and needs
- Leave a financial gift to help cover the costs of food, veterinary care, grooming, and other expenses
This helps ensure that the person caring for your pet has both the authority and the resources to provide the life you want for them.
Why Pet Planning Matters
Many people are surprised to learn that, legally, pets are treated as property under the law. Because of this, you cannot technically leave money directly to your pet in a will.
However, there are planning tools that help solve this problem. One of the most effective options is creating a pet trust.
What Is a Pet Trust?
A pet trust allows you to set aside money specifically for your pet’s care while appointing someone to manage those funds.
A pet trust typically includes:
- A caregiver who provides day-to-day care for your pet
- A trustee who manages and distributes the funds for your pet’s benefit
In some cases, the same person may serve both roles. In others, these responsibilities are divided to provide additional oversight and accountability.
A well-designed pet trust can also outline your wishes for how your pet should live, including things like:
- Veterinary and medical care
- Grooming and hygiene
- Boarding or pet-sitting
- Training and behavioral support
- Toys, enrichment, and daily routines
- End-of-life care
Many pet trusts also include a pet care guide, which documents important details about your pet’s personality, habits, medical history, and favorite activities. This helps maintain consistency and comfort for your pet if their caregiver changes.
Planning for the Pets We Love
We take our pets to the vet. We pick out the best food and toys for them. We make sure they’re safe and happy every day.
Creating a pet care plan simply extends that same love and responsibility into the future. With the right planning in place, you can ensure that your beloved companion continues to receive the care, stability, and affection they deserve – no matter what happens.
Monty may spend most of his day supervising the office and welcoming visitors, but his future is secure because we’ve planned for it. And your pets deserve the same peace of mind. 🐶