Because they are family too
Pet Planning
Your pets cannot speak for themselves. A pet trust ensures they are cared for by someone you choose, with funds set aside for their needs.
Because They Depend on You for Everything
If something happened to you tomorrow, what would happen to your dog, your cat, your horse? Most people assume a family member would step in. But without a legal plan, there is no guarantee, and no obligation. A verbal agreement with a friend or family member is not enforceable. The person you asked might change their mind, move away, or simply forget. Worse, if you become incapacitated, no one has the legal authority to access your funds for your pet's care.
Arizona Revised Statute §14-2907 specifically authorizes pet trusts. The trust stays in effect for the life of your animal and can cover any companion pet, from dogs and cats to horses, birds, and reptiles.
What a Pet Trust Solves
A pet trust is a legally enforceable document under Arizona law. It names a caretaker, sets aside funds for your animal's care, and documents exactly how you want them looked after. Veterinarian, medication schedule, dietary needs, exercise routine, and a backup caretaker if the first is no longer able to serve. For millions of pet owners, their animals are family. A pet trust is the only way to make sure they are treated like family after you are gone.
For millions of pet owners, their animals are family. A pet trust is the only way to make sure they are treated like family after you are gone.
If Your Pet Depends on You
Without a plan, there is no guarantee they will be cared for.
- Single Pet Owners. If you live alone with your pet, there is no automatic caretaker if something happens to you.
- Owners of Multiple Pets. Multiple animals require more detailed planning for care, housing, and expenses.
- Owners of Exotic or Special-Needs Pets. Horses, reptiles, and animals with medical conditions need specialized care instructions.
- Seniors with Companion Animals. As you age, having a plan for your pet becomes increasingly important.
Your First Step Starts Here
At our live, free estate planning seminars across Phoenix and Tucson, we walk you through how to protect you and your loved ones from probate. We give you a step-by-step plan that's simple and clear. Sign up today for peace of mind tomorrow.
Client Testimonials
Keep Learning
Continue Reading
From the Blog
- What Is a Pet Trust and How Does It Work in Arizona?
The full mechanics of an Arizona pet trust, in one read.
- What Happens to Your Family Without an Estate Plan in Arizona
Without a plan, your pet has no legal protection and no guaranteed caretaker.
- Trusts vs. Wills in Arizona: Key Differences Compared
Why a pet trust outperforms a simple will provision when it comes to actually caring for an animal.
Glossary
- Pet Trust
An Arizona trust created specifically to provide for the care of an animal during its lifetime.
- Custodial Trust
A trust structure that holds funds for the benefit of a person or animal under the management of a custodian.
- Successor Trustee
The backup trustee who takes over if the original trustee cannot continue serving.
- Beneficiary Designation
The form that names who, or what, receives an account or asset at death.
- Revocable Living Trust
The main trust that often funds a pet trust at the grantor's death.
- Irrevocable Trust
A trust that cannot be changed once signed. Sometimes used for pet trusts where permanence matters.