Estate Planning Protects Your Loved Ones
EVEN THOSE THAT WALK ON FOUR LEGS
You already know that thorough estate planning can preserve your wishes, protect your assets, and provide for your heirs. Obviously, you want to leave a legacy that your children and grandchildren can be proud of, but what about your pets? Animals can be nearly as integral a part of the family as people. If you’re a pet lover, you want to be clear that your four-legged friends will be protected in the event that something happens to you. You may think that including your pets in your will is enough to ensure their safety and security. Sadly, that’s not the case. Pets are considered assets in the eyes of the law, so they can end up just being treated like a piece of property. Having your prized possessions sit in probate for a year is a headache, but the same fate can be much worse for your critters. They could end up in a shelter, living a life you never intended for them. Luckily, the laws in all 50 states now allow pet lovers to include decisions regarding their furry family members as part of their estate plan.
There are three important considerations when it comes to estate planning for your pets. The most crucial is designating a caregiver in your documents. This decision shouldn’t be taken lightly. You want to be certain that your designee is willing and able to care for your pets for the remainder of their life. It might be okay to surprise somebody with a set of china, but you don’t want to do the same with your beloved German shepherd. You should also set aside funds to provide for your pet. Calculate how long your pets will live, and leave enough money so that they are taken care of. It’s also a good idea to include a little compensation for your designated caregiver. It’s not required, but it’s a nice way to express your gratitude. Along with funds, you should create a care plan, including a feeding schedule, contact information for your vet, and any other relevant instructions.
As animal lovers ourselves, the team at Merlino & Gonzalez will help ensure that your pets live their best lives.
FATHER’S DAY CHILI LIME CHICKEN WINGS MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
take a break
This Father’s Day, spice up your wings with this zesty recipe that’s sure to please the whole family.
INGREDIENTS
• 4 pounds chicken wings • 1 stick unsalted butter, softened • 1 1/4 tablespoons Thai red curry paste • 1/4 cup honey • 1/4 cup soy sauce • 1 lime, halved
• Extra-virgin olive oil • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • Chopped cilantro for garnish 3. Blend butter, red curry paste, honey, and soy sauce in a large mixing bowl. 4. Toss wings in butter mixture. Squeeze lime juice on top, transfer to serving plate, and garnish with cilantro.
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 425 F. 2. Rinse wings under cold water and pat dry. Season liberally
with salt and pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast on a baking sheet for 25 minutes or until skin becomes crisp and brown.
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