A will can name a specific person to take ownership of your pet, alongside instructions and, ideally, some funds for their initial care.
Steps to take
- Confirm the person has explicitly agreed to the role, not just assumed willingness
- Name a backup caregiver in case your first choice is unavailable
- Include a simple letter of instruction with feeding, medical, and behavioral details
Keep a physical "pet care card" at home too — a will alone may not be accessed quickly enough in an immediate emergency.