Temporary Pet Guardianship

At Kierman Law, we know that pets are part of the family. In times of emergency, travel, or health issues, it’s essential to have a plan in place to ensure your pets are cared for by trusted individuals. Temporary guardianship for pets allows you to legally designate a trusted person to care for your animals in the event of an emergency or a situation where you are unable to look after them. This type of guardianship is particularly important for pet owners who are planning for short-term absences or potential health concerns, ensuring their pets receive the same level of care and attention as they would from you.

Why You Need Temporary Guardianship for Pets

Life is unpredictable. Whether you need to travel unexpectedly, face a health crisis, or are called away for an extended period, your pets shouldn’t be left without care. Temporary guardianship ensures your pets will:

• Be cared for by a trusted guardian
• Have continuity of care in their routines, feeding, and medical needs
• Avoid being placed in unfamiliar or stressful environments, like shelters

Assign Temporary Guardianship for Pets

If you intend to be out of town without your loved pets, you should assign Temporary Guardianship to the responsible caretaker. This legal document allows pet owners to designate a trusted individual to care for their pets on a temporary basis should the need arise. In the event of a medical emergency, a veterinarian is likely to only speak with the caretaker and allow the caretaker to make important decisions with your authorized consent. If you are inaccessible or unavailable, your pet may suffer from the delay in medical care. By having these details outlined in advance, the designated temporary guardian can seamlessly step in and provide the necessary care for the pet in the owner’s absence.

Assignment of Temporary Guardianship is important to allow the caretaker to make health, medical, safety, and comfort decisions for your pets and requires others to follow the directions of the caretaker.

Kierman Law Can Help

Your pets deserve the best care, even when you can’t provide it directly. We understand the importance of peace of mind when it comes to your pet’s well-being. By working with an experienced estate planning attorney, you can create a comprehensive plan that provides for the care of your pets and leaves you with peace of mind knowing your furry family members will be well cared for in the event of an emergency. If you have travel plans without your pets, contact us to establish Temporary Pet Guardianship.