Pet Trusts and Estate Planning in Riverside, California

How to Protect Your Pets When You Are Gone

Pets are more than just animals—they are family. With nearly 68 percent of U.S. households owning at least one pet, it is no surprise that many Riverside families want to ensure their beloved companions are protected as part of a comprehensive estate plan. If you are a pet owner, understanding what you can and cannot do when setting up a pet trust is essential.

• Pet trusts are legally recognized in California and can protect your pets after your death
• You can fund a pet trust with a reasonable amount for your pet’s lifetime care
• Only pets alive at the time of your passing can be covered by a pet trust
• One pet trust can include multiple pets and lasts until the last pet passes away
• Choosing the right trustee is critical to your pet’s well-being
• Any leftover funds must be clearly directed to avoid court decisions
• A Riverside estate planning attorney can help ensure your wishes are honored

Why Pet Trusts Matter in Riverside Estate Planning

In Riverside, California, pets are considered property under the law. This means they cannot directly inherit money. A pet trust solves this problem by allowing you to set aside funds and legally appoint someone to care for your pets according to your instructions.

A well-structured pet trust works alongside your wills and trusts to ensure no gaps in care.

Tip 1: Reasonable Funding Is Key in Riverside Pet Trusts

You may fund your pet trust with any amount of money that is reasonably expected to cover your pet’s care. This can include food, grooming, veterinary bills, boarding, and even behavioral training.

However, California courts can reduce an excessive trust amount. For example, leaving ten million dollars for one cat could result in a court reallocating excess funds to an heir under California law.

Tip 2: Only Living Pets Can Be Covered

A pet trust in Riverside can only provide for pets that are alive at the time of the owner’s death. Unlike a Will, a pet trust cannot include “future pets.”

If your dog has puppies after your passing, those puppies will not be covered unless separate arrangements are made.

Tip 3: Multiple Pets Are Allowed

One pet trust can cover all of your pets—dogs, cats, birds, or even an aquarium full of fish. In California, the trust remains active until the last surviving pet passes away or for up to 90 years, whichever occurs first.

This makes pet trusts a practical solution for families with multiple animals.

Tip 4: Choose the Right Trustee in Riverside

Your trustee is responsible for managing the trust funds and ensuring your pets receive proper care. This should be someone you genuinely trust.

If you are concerned about accountability, you may also appoint a trust protector to oversee the trustee. If no trustee is named, or if the trustee becomes unavailable, a Riverside court may appoint one for you.

Tip 5: Plan for Excess Funds

Once the last surviving pet passes away, any remaining funds must go somewhere. Your pet trust should clearly state who receives the leftover money.

If this is not specified, California law may direct the funds to an heir you did not intend to benefit.

Pet Trusts as Part of a Comprehensive Estate Plan in Riverside

Pet trusts are most effective when integrated into a complete estate plan that includes trusts, wills, and incapacity planning. At Heather Lynn Law, we help Riverside clients protect both their loved ones and their pets with clarity and compassion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Trusts in Riverside

Can I include instructions for my pet’s lifestyle?
Yes. You can specify diet, veterinarian preferences, grooming routines, and even daily schedules.

Do pet trusts avoid probate in California?
Yes. Properly funded pet trusts operate outside of probate.

What happens if my chosen caretaker cannot serve?
You can name backups, and the court may appoint a replacement if needed.

Can I change my pet trust later?
Absolutely. Pet trusts can be updated as long as you are legally competent.

Is a pet trust expensive to set up?
Costs vary, but pet trusts are usually affordable and provide peace of mind.