Pet Trusts

For many Maryland families, pets aren’t “just animals.” They’re loyal companions and beloved members of the family. A Pet Trust ensures that your pets are cared for and protected if you become incapacitated or pass away.

At Holt Legacy Law, we help clients create legally binding Pet Trusts that provide clear instructions, financial support, and peace of mind knowing that their pets will always be loved and well cared for.

What Is a Pet Trust?

A Pet Trust is a legal arrangement that sets aside money and provides instructions for your pet’s care after your death or incapacity. Unlike informal promises to friends or family, a Pet Trust is legally enforceable under Maryland law.

This means:

• You choose who will care for your pets (the caretaker).

• You appoint someone to oversee the funds (the trustee).

• You specify exactly how funds should be used—for food, vet care, grooming, boarding, and other needs.

• You can include as much detail as you want, down to your pet’s favorite food or sleeping spot.

Your trustee ensures that your caretaker follows these instructions—and that the money is used as you intended.

Why You Shouldn’t Rely on a Will Alone

Many people name a friend or relative in their will to care for their pets, but wills have limitations:

• Wills don’t take effect until after probate, which can take months.

• There’s no legal requirement for someone named in a will to actually take your pets.

• Funds left “for the care of my pets” can be spent however the person chooses.

A Pet Trust avoids these issues. It goes into effect immediately upon your incapacity or death, ensures that funds are properly managed, and gives legal authority to the people you’ve chosen to care for your pets.

How a Pet Trust Works in Maryland

Your Pet Trust can stand alone or be included as part of your Revocable Living Trust.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. You name your pets specifically (and include any future pets, if you wish).

2. You appoint a caretaker to provide day-to-day care.

3. You choose a trustee to manage and distribute funds for your pet’s expenses.

4. You specify how much money should be set aside and how it should be spent.

5. You decide what happens to any leftover funds after your pet’s lifetime (for example, donating to an animal charity).

Your Pet Trust remains active for the lifetime of your pet and can include detailed care instructions, ensuring continuity and compassion.

Common Pet Trust Provisions

A Pet Trust can include as much or as little detail as you prefer. Common provisions include:

• Feeding and veterinary care instructions

• Exercise and living arrangements (e.g., remaining in your home, living with a relative)

• End-of-life decisions and burial or cremation wishes

• Successor caretakers in case your first choice is unable to serve

• Charitable donations to a rescue or shelter after your pet’s passing

At Holt Legacy Law, we’ll help you tailor every detail so your pets receive the same love and attention they do now.

Integrating Pet Trusts with Your Estate Plan

Your Pet Trust can be seamlessly integrated into your broader estate plan. For most clients, we recommend establishing it as part of your Revocable Living Trust to keep all your wishes in one coordinated document and avoid probate delays.

Learn more about Revocable Living Trusts »

How Holt Legacy Law Can Help

At Holt Legacy Law, we understand that pets are family. We help Maryland pet owners create thoughtful, enforceable Pet Trusts that protect their companions no matter what the future holds.

When you work with us, we will:

• Explain how Pet Trusts fit into your estate plan

• Draft legally binding documents that comply with Maryland law

• Help you choose trustworthy caretakers and trustees

• Ensure sufficient funding and proper coordination with your will or trust

Our goal is simple: to give you peace of mind knowing your pets will be cared for with love and dignity.

Start Planning for Their Future Today

If you want to make sure your pets are always safe, loved, and provided for, a Pet Trust is the best way to do it.