Editor:
Have you ever thought about what will happen to your beloved dog if you suddenly die?
I heard a sad story about an older, childless couple who had a dog they loved. The woman died in January. A couple of months later, the man dropped dead in front of the dog. The dog was taken to the local shelter. Apparently, your dog is considered part of your estate, and until the estate is settled, which could take months, he is supposed to stay at the shelter. A friend cannot simply come and get him.
Imagine how traumatic this is for the animal. No matter how nice the people are at the shelter, they’re not the dog’s family — and they go home at night.
If you die suddenly, unless you’ve made arrangements, your pet will be taken to the local shelter.
I carry in my wallet and in my vehicle with the insurance papers, a signed card that lists several people (and their phone numbers) whom I authorize to pick up my dog. If I suddenly disappear from my dog’s life, I want him to be cared for right away by a friend or relative.
Cecilia Ohm-Eriksen, Sechelt
