You were named as Pet Guardian — now what?

Your friend or loved one has written their last will & testament — and they just named you as pet guardian. What does this actually mean?

First, note that if you were named as an alternate pet guardian, then you will be asked to serve only if the person named as pet guardian is unable to, or declines to serve.

What is a pet guardian?

While every arrangement is different, being named for pet guardianship usually means that:

• In the event that the testator passes away before their pets, you will be responsible for giving them a home and taking care of them
• This generally applies to any pets the testator may have had at the time of their passing, including those obtained after the will was written

Do I have to serve as pet guardian?

No, being nominated does not obligate you to serve. When the time comes, you can decide whether to accept this responsibility or not. If you choose to decline, another alternate pet guardian named in the will can take over, and if no alternate is available, the probate court will appoint someone else to serve.

What should I do now?

• If the person that named you hasn’t done so already, get in touch to discuss the specifics of their wishes so you know exactly what your responsibilities will be.
• Create or update your own will. It's quick, 100% free, and you can update it at any time.