Guardians for Life
Last winter, a woman called the shelter distraught over the death of a longtime neighbor and confused about what to do with the deceased’s three beloved cats. Out-of-town family had arrived to make funeral arrangements, but no one had made arrangements for the cats. They had escaped the house and were now unapproachable.
About the same time, an attorney called to advise the humane society that, with the sudden death of a client, MHS had been named guardian for a black Labrador. He wanted to know when we could come and pick up the dog and, no, he didn’t know anything about the dog, not even his name.
After much cajoling, the cats were caught, comforted and placed in loving homes. After two days of sleuthing with neighbors and veterinary offices, we learned something about the lonely Labrador and found him a family.
These four orphans would have greatly benefited from The Marin Humane Society’s Guardians for Life program.
In the confusion after a human guardian’s death, companion animals are sometimes forgotten, sent to a boarding kennel, given to a friend or relative who really doesn’t want another pet, or brought anonymously to the shelter.
With enrollment in the Guardians For Life program, members of The Marin Humane Society can take comfort knowing that their animal companions will be cared for after they are no longer the caretaker.
How to Enroll
To enroll your animal companion in this life assurance program, simply place in your last will and testament language similar to the following:
“At the time of my death, I give (my dog, my two cats) owned by me to The Marin Humane Society to be placed in a loving home consistent with the information documents that I have sent to the Society.”
Then submit the completed Pet Owner Questionnaire and Medical History Form (the attached form can be downloaded and printed). Advise the executor of your estate and keep copies with your important papers. We will, in turn, send you an Emergency Notification Card to carry with you at all times.
It is a gift of love to do such simple things for the animals who give you so much in return.
Your Will and Guardians for Life
Making testamentary provisions for one’s animal companions is an act of love, made with the understanding that they are forever dependent on human care and protection.
Since animals are considered property under California State Law, they may not be beneficiaries of either a will provision or a trust. How then can someone who believes that animal companions are not just another piece of property provide for them?
There are alternatives, which include honorary trust and contingent gifts that can have the effect of providing ongoing care and protection. These options have legal and logistical pitfalls and should be carefully crafted by an attorney.
Some of the best experiences are the result of placing an animal companion in the hands of a friend or family member who knows and wants the animal. An outright gift to that person, trusting that they will provide for “Conrad” and “Paws,” is the most comfortable position for a pet owner. However, sometimes this option is simply not available.
We ask you, then, to consider the Marin Humane Society’s Guardians for Life program designed to ensure that your beloved animal's future is secured.
