He left behind a fortune estimated at $2 billion. Lagerfeld was known for his iconic fashion designs and his love for his cats. He famously left his cats a significant portion of his estate. This sparked a debate about the legality of leaving money to pets.

Pet trust laws are not just about pets; they’re about the financial management of pets, and they’re about the financial management of pet owners. Pet trust laws are designed to protect the financial interests of pet owners, particularly those who are elderly or disabled. They are intended to ensure that pets are cared for properly and that their financial needs are met.

* **Disinheritance:** The act of excluding someone from inheriting property or assets. * **Reasons for Disinheritance:** Attorneys advise that the reasons for disinheritance must be clearly stated and documented. * **Pet Preference:** A person’s preference for pets over family can be a valid reason for disinheritance, but it must be clearly articulated and supported by evidence.

A trust is a legal arrangement where a person (the trustee) holds assets for the benefit of another person (the beneficiary). This arrangement is governed by a trust agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of the trust. In the context of pet care, a trust can be used to ensure that funds are used solely for the pet’s needs, preventing any misuse or misappropriation.

If a pet outlives its caregiver, state laws differ about who must take responsibility for the animal (The ASPCA offers an online guide, state-by-state.) Leslie Ann Mandel, widow of science-fiction author Arthur Herzog III, thought of pretty much everything for her cat, dog and more than two-dozen cockatiels, each bird identified by name, in her will. Specifically, a trustee was awarded $100,000 and access to additional funds, but the birds had to be allowed to remain living in the aviary of Mandel’s Wainscott, Hamptons home after her death (in 2015). Her chief demand: “no cages.” When things go wrong What could go wrong? A lot.

**Trustee vs.

## Why Separate Trustees for Pets in Wills? Estate attorneys advise separating the role of trustee and caretaker for animals in a pet trust. This seemingly minor distinction can have significant implications for the animals’ future well-being.

We want to provide them with a loving home.”

This statement reflects a common sentiment among animal welfare organizations. Many organizations strive to find homes for animals in need, but the reality is that shelters are often overcrowded and underfunded. This creates a significant challenge for organizations like the one being discussed, as they must balance the need for financial support with the desire to provide the best possible care for the animals.