A woman's 1988 will specified that all of her pets were to be euthanized upon her death. Presumably, she was concerned about them being mistreated after her death. When her trustee, 5/3 Bank, noticed that animal related charities were the primary beneficiaries of her assets, after talking with neighbors and friends they found a home for her healthy, 11 year old cat instead. They surmised that she would prefer a good home for the cat to euthanizing.
Two lessons can be learned:
1. Clients should update their wills to reflect their current circumstances and wishes.
2. Pet trusts can be used to provide for animals after the death of the owner.
Props to 5/3 for being humane.
