Estate Planning for Pet Owners in North Carolina: Who Will Care for Your Furry Family?

For many North Carolinians, pets are more than just animals—they’re family. Yet when it comes to estate planning, pet care is often overlooked. At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we help clients in Hickory and the surrounding areas plan for every member of their household—including the four-legged ones. With the right legal tools, you can ensure your pet is cared for by someone you trust, with the resources they need.

Why Include Pets in Your Estate Plan?

Under North Carolina law, pets are legally considered personal property—not heirs or dependents. This means that without a plan, your pet could end up in a shelter or with someone you wouldn't have chosen. By including your pet in your estate plan, you can:

• Designate a trusted caregiver

• Allocate funds for veterinary care, food, and grooming

• Provide detailed instructions for their daily needs

• Avoid family conflict over who should take the animal

What Are Your Options?

🐾 1. Include a Pet Provision in Your Will

You can name a person to inherit your pet and optionally leave a sum of money to help cover care expenses. However, this is a simple approach and has limitations—like delays due to probate.

🐾 2. Create a Pet Trust (Allowed in North Carolina)

North Carolina General Statute § 36C-4-408 specifically allows for statutory pet trusts. This is often the most effective way to ensure consistent, enforceable care.

A pet trust allows you to:

• Appoint a caregiver and a trustee

• Provide instructions for feeding, medical treatment, and routines

• Fund the trust with money designated only for your pet

• Ensure oversight through the trustee’s fiduciary duty

✅ Example: You can leave $5,000 in a trust for your Labrador, Max, designating your sister to care for him and your attorney to manage the funds.

Additional Planning Tips for Pet Owners

• Choose a reliable caregiver—someone who loves animals and is capable of long-term care.

• Name a backup caregiver in case your first choice is unable or unwilling.

• Include microchip ID, vet records, and preferences (like diet or favorite toys) in your plan.

• Talk to your chosen caregivers in advance to ensure they’re on board.

Why Work with a Local Estate Planning Attorney?

At King & Rowe, Attorneys at Law, we help you create comprehensive estate plans tailored to your family’s needs—including your pets. Serving Hickory and the surrounding counties of Catawba, Burke, and Caldwell, we’re committed to offering clear, compassionate guidance every step of the way.

Whether you need a will, pet trust, or full estate portfolio, our team of local attorneys is ready to help. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you plan for the entire family.

Contact Us Today

📍 Serving Hickory, NC and nearby areas

📞 Call us at 828-466-3858 or visit kingrowelaw.com to get started

📧 Ask about how to include a pet trust in your will or estate plan