Caring for Your Pet Now and in The Future

People get very attached to their pets, and rightfully so. They offer companionship and can help lessen anxiety and feelings of isolation. Interacting with a pet can lower stress and release feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin.

There are also physical benefits of walking your pet.  Besides providing exercise, walking a pet can lead to interaction with others, creating a sense of connection.  Having a pet can also lead to lower blood pressure and cholesterol and caring for a pet can give someone a renewed sense of purpose. 

With all these benefits, wouldn’t you want to make sure your pet is cared for now and in the future?

If you haven’t written down details about your pet and how you care for it, this would be helpful to document if someone needed to step in and assist in that role.

Items to record about your pet:

  • Pet type, name, any special markings

  • Daily routine of feeding, medications, walking, cage cleaning

  • Veterinarian (and emergency vet clinic) name and contact information

  • Location of pet records and whether your pet is microchipped and/or tagged

  • Any particular likes, dislikes or important information about your pet

Other Helpful Tips:

  • Identify someone who can be your pet caregiver if you are unable to do so, and make sure they know the above information.

  • Keep a card in your wallet stating you have a pet at home, with contact information for your trusted pet caregiver.

  • Post a sign on your refrigerator alerting emergency responders that there is a pet inside.

  • Name a pet guardian in your will and consider leaving funds for your pet’s care when you are gone. Read more about financial and legal planning for your pet here.

 

Taking these steps will help ensure your pet is well taken care of now and in the future.

We, at Everyday Money Management, can help you document your financial life, including information about your pet.  If you would like to learn more on how we can help, click here.

Leah Nichaman