Episode 15: Ensuring a Future for Texx: Planning for Pets in Our Absence

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, we shift the conversation to one of the most important parts of our lives--our pets. Our essential question asks, “How can pet owners ensure that their pets are well taken care of and secure in the event of a long-term absence or passing?”

In celebration of National Pet Month this May, we talked about our baby boy Texx, a two-year-old boxer with a huge personality. We realized that we never documented who’s going to take care of our dog, and this episode is also us getting started on that. 

The least you can do is talk to friends and relatives who you can leave your dog with in the event that you get in an accident or you never return. Make sure you communicate clearly and get their agreement. It’s also good to get several options, since people’s circumstances may change and they might end up not being able to care for a pet anymore.

What if you do not make arrangements for someone to care for your dog?

Research shows the dog will either: 

• Go to an animal shelter or rescue organization that would try to rehome your dog.
• The shelter might offer foster care for your pet until the pet is adopted.
• There are sanctuaries that take in pets if it’s a good fit and they have space.

Do dogs grieve for their owners?

Research shows that dogs do grieve after their owner or another pet companion passes. Signs of grieving include decreased activity, loss of appetite, changes in sleep patterns, mood changes, and vocalizations.

How can you help your pets through the grieving process?

• Maintain their regular routine. It’s helpful if they are still surrounded by what’s familiar.
• Give them physical contact. They need hugs, cuddles, and belly rubs.
• Provide them with enough play and exercise.
• Make sure they get to have social interaction under the supervision of a veterinarian or pet behavioral specialist..
• For depression seek the help of a veterinarian.

To help you through this planning process for your pets, we are sharing with you all the questions we asked and the steps we took to prepare, all in one document. We know how important our pets are to us, and we want to make sure that like the rest of your loved ones, they’re taken care of as well.

Resources: 

• Click here for the Calm app. Maxx’s favorite sleep story was The Prince and the Naturalist.You can try Calm for free. Set a reminder to cancel it before you are billed.
• Click here to get your pet care legacy guide.

Disclaimer: We are not lawyers of veterinarians. We are pet owners who want to make sure our pets are taken care of in case of an emergency and we want you to have the same peace of mind as well.