Setting up your Pets in your Will

[KimM]

I know this may seem odd, but I'm sure those who loves their birds and other pets as much I do will understand. I want to be proactive for my "kids". More than likely, my precious Macaw will out live me and I want to ensure if something happens to me that he gets a wonderful home. I've asked family members - 2 nephews, who have said they are willing to take him, but they are now starting their own families and I'm concerned it would be a burden to them and my baby would not get the attention that he needs. My friends have no experience with macaws and again I do not want to burden them. Are there any really good organizations out there that in the event of my death, I can put him in my will and he would get the care and love that he needs? Thanks.

[birdlady49]

Absolutely! Even though The Gabriel Foundation is in Colorado, they specialize in just this type of thing. Take a look at their website: The Gabriel Foundation® and email them for more information. While you're on their website, read about their special December rescues, which involved taking in birds where their owners became ill or died.

I'm sure there are other rescue groups that offer similar programs.

[sassie]

This is by no means odd! Its a fact of life, I feel its as important when adding a new bird as there avian work up!

[Nazir's]

Try looking into Trust Funds as well. They are the way that more and more pet owners are going now days. Technically, you cannot leave anything in the care of an animal but you can create a Trust for anything or anyone. Generally, a will directs your wishes and designates your processions. In a court of law, it must be backed up by a lawyer and within a trust fund for added security; especially when involving pets.

[birdlady49]

They just had a story about this very thing on CNN. They posted three websites for more information:

The Estate Planning for Pets Foundation
Welcome to 2ndchance4pets.org

The third is through the ASPCA but the TV screen changed before I could write it down.

I haven't checked either of these sites so who knows?

[red192]

Not odd at all. Though I am 35, you NEVER know! It is understood that my boyfriend's sister would take my cats and my birds. She is owned by an Amazon and an African Grey. And she has a cat of her own. My mom would get Scarlet, my dog. I am NOT leaving anything for my boyfriend to care for cause he doesnt' care for his dogs, I DO! And I do have writen in a will who gets what! So I know my 'kids' are cared for by people I trust!

[KimM]

Thank you ALL so much! I will definitely check these sites out. He's such as special macaw. Of course, I'm sure all "moms" and "dads" feel the same way about their birds. I don't think there is a day since I've had him where he has not made me laugh. My other "babies" are in my will as well (attached). They're not spoiled or anything....LOL.

[Nazir's]

Originally Posted by KimM

My other "babies" are in my will as well (attached). They're not spoiled or anything....LOL.

Sure... They're not...