Free guide
A pet plan for your loved one
Pets are family. A one-page plan means no one has to guess in a hard moment.
Short answer
A pet plan names who will care for the pet in an emergency, during a hospital stay, and for the long term, and writes down the vet, food, and care details in one place. Making it ahead of time protects the pet and lets your loved one choose.
Want this organized for you? See the Monthly Guidance plan.
Questions to settle together
- Who will care for the pet in an emergency, starting today?
- Who will take the pet if your loved one is in the hospital or rehab?
- Who will give the pet a long-term home if needed?
- If your loved one changes homes, does the new place allow pets? Ask for the pet policy in writing.
- Is the pet mentioned in the will? An estate attorney can explain options.
Printable pet plan
| Pet name, type, and age | |
|---|---|
| Microchip number and company | |
| Vet name and phone | |
| Food, amount, and times | |
| Medicines and when | |
| Habits, fears, and favorite things | |
| Emergency caregiver (name and phone) | |
| Short-term caregiver (name and phone) | |
| Long-term home (name and phone) | |
| Where supplies and records are kept |
Put a note on the fridge sheet that a pet lives in the home. Updated on: __________
Common questions
What happens to a pet if an older owner goes to the hospital?
Without a plan, neighbors or family scramble. Naming an emergency caregiver now, with a key and care notes, prevents that.
Can my loved one keep a pet in assisted living?
Some communities allow pets and some do not. Ask for the written pet policy and any fees before deciding.
Rules vary by state. Check with your state agency or a licensed professional where your loved one lives.
Want this organized for your family? The Downsizing Plan and Estate Task Package turns it into a personalized checklist with reminders. See plans.
Official resources and further reading
Links go to public resources. Kinhaven is not affiliated with them.