Litherland, Kennedy & Associates - Quarter 4 2024

PLAN FOR YOUR PET’S CARE

After You Can No Longer Be There

Owning a pet can brighten one’s life in so many ways.

Approximately 55% of adults ages 50–80 have a dog, cat, or other pet, and the benefits they receive are immeasurable — from greater enjoyment in life to reducing stress and providing a sense of purpose. Pets benefit their owners both psychologically and physically. Dog owners tend to be more active and walk more than those who do not own dogs. Research shows that pet ownership is also linked to higher self-esteem, less fearful attitudes, and less depression and loneliness in owners. Other studies linked an owner’s close, caring bonds with a pet to reduced blood pressure and a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. These animals become beloved members of the family. In recognition of National Animal Safety and Protection Month in October, this is a good time to reflect on the importance of caring well for your pet — not only while you are alive, but in the event of your incapacitation or death. Some pet owners assume loved ones will take responsibility for their pets, but taking that for granted is risky. All too often, pets wind up abandoned, in a shelter, or euthanized because their owner has made no provision for their care.

If you are no longer able to provide care, your animal will need companionship, oversight, regular checkups, and vaccinations. Older pets often need medication and frequent veterinary care, which can be expensive. We can help you make a pet plan to ensure your companion’s safety and security through every stage of its life. This may entail designating a guardian and setting aside funds for expenses. Illness, accidents, or death can strike at any time. Just as you would plan for the future of a newborn baby, it is important to plan for your pet’s future without delay to ensure that your beloved companion is safe, secure, and well cared for if you are no longer able to do so. Our estate planning attorneys can help you make all the arrangements needed to safeguard your pet’s future.

VEGAN SINGAPORE NOODLES

Inspired by MinimalistBaker.com

INGREDIENTS

Sauce •

Noodles •

3/4 red bell pepper, thinly sliced 12 whole snow peas 1 tbsp tamari

2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tbsp tamari

6 oz thin rice noodles

• • •

2 tbsp toasted sesame oil, divided 1/2 white onion, thinly sliced

2 tbsp maple syrup 2 tbsp lime juice

• •

2 tsp curry powder

1. Make the sauce by whisking together all ingredients in a small mixing bowl, then set aside. 2. Place rice noodles in a large bowl and cover with boiling water. 3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain and set aside. 4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp sesame oil, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently. 5. Add snow peas, tamari, and curry powder to the skillet, sauté for 2–3 minutes, then remove from skillet and set aside. 6. Add remaining sesame oil, cooked rice noodles, and sauce to the skillet, and sauté for 1 minute, tossing frequently with tongs. 7. Add vegetables back into the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then remove from heat. DIRECTIONS

SOLUTION ON PAGE 2

WHAT MONSTER PLAYS TRICKS ON HALLOWEEN? PRANK-ENSTEIN!

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