Texas Anti-Animal Abuse Law Vetoed
Texas governer Greg Abbott vetoes bipartisan bill that would have expanded anti-animal abuse laws.
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Judge rules pet is part of a “multispecies family” and deserves protections
A dog killed by a police officer was found to be part of a “multispecies family” with the couple who owned him, leading to charges against the officer
Should the Trustee and Caregiver Be the Same Person?
The person who manages your trust and the person who cares for your pets can be the same person, and there are some advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before making your decision.
What Happens to the Leftover Funds in a Pet Trust?
Your trust can direct what should happen to the funds remaining in your pet trust when all of your pets pass away. There are some common options to choose from.
What to Include in a Pet Adoption Agreement
A pet adoption agreement is a legal contract, enforceable by a court. Make sure you include all the terms that might be necessary before signing one.
What are the Laws about Pet Adoption?
Pet adoption laws vary depending on where you live, and may also vary depending on the type of seller you get your pet from. Many states prohibit particular species or breeds, and some even have “lemon laws” similar to those that apply to car sales.
What is the Difference Between Pet Adoption and Ownership?
Although we frequently use the word “adopt” in relation to our pets to recognize that they are living beings, the law considers pets and other animals to be personal property that you own.
Pet Lemon Laws
If you have recently adopted a pet who suffers from injury, illness, or a hereditary condition that affects their quality of life, your state may have laws that allow you to reverse the sale, or even recovery your pet’s veterinary expenses.
Buying a Pet from a Private Seller
Adopting a pet from a private seller means that you lack several of the automatic legal protections you would have when adopting from a professional. However, there are ways to keep yourself safe.
When is a Pet Unfit For Sale?
When buying a pet from a professional, like a pet shelter or pet store, there are certain automatic protections that the adopter has.
What is the Difference between a Service Animal and an Assistance Animal?
Though often used interchangeably, “service animals” and “assistance animals” are defined by two distinct federal laws, and confer different rights and responsibilities.
Landlords and Assistance Animals
If a pet qualifies as an assistance animal, the Fair Housing Act provides protections to the tenant. A landlord must make reasonable accommodations for animals that perform a service for someone with a FHA-recognized disability.
Choosing a Pet Guardian or Permanent Caregiver
If you don’t choose a pet guardian for your pet, and make this choice clear in your estate planning documents, the law could give your pet to someone you don’t want, or may go to a shelter to await a new owner.
How Much Money Should I Put Into a Pet Trust?
Leaving too little money for your pets may mean the money runs out while your pets are still alive, but leaving too much may also lead to a court invalidating your will. There are guidelines to follow to leave the right amount.
Can a Pet Be Euthanized When Its Owner Dies?
It is unlikely that a court would honor a request to euthanize a healthy pet.
Giving a Pet to a Pet Care Organization
If you do not believe a friend or family member would be a good guardian for your pet, you may also be considering letting a professional pet care organization adopt them. Though this can sometimes be a good decision, there are some things to watch out for.
Should My Pet Trust Include Compensation for the Caregiver or Trustee?
Your chosen pet caregiver and your trust’s manager both have a lot of work to do to keep your pet healthy and happy after you’re gone, so it may seem right to provide them compensation. Make sure to do it properly.
Special Requests to Include in Your Pet Trust
Your pet’s special needs or unique preferences can be explained in your trust. These requests may even be legally enforced.
How Pet Owners Can Plan for Unexpected Medical Emergencies
If a sudden accident or illness prevents you from caring for your pets, and you are unable to express your preferences, your pets may go without necessary care. Planning ahead can give you peace of mind.