What Will Happen To Your Pets if You... Disappear?

As a member of the baby boomer generation, I'm pitched daily on life insurance, funeral services, vitamins, and notices from AARP. The only one I pay any attention to is AARP - because it's a familiar name and I'm thinking maybe I should break down and join.

Recently there was a campaign on Twitter to help find a home for a wonderful German Shepard named Darby. Darby, who is about seven, I think, was left homeless when her beloved own went on vacation ... and passed away while he was gone. There were no plans made for Darby's care, other than the plans he'd put together for care during his vacation.

It's raised a big red flag for me. We all love our pets so dearly, reports show how important they are to us, and yet...how many of us have planned ahead for them? Naturally, in my case, one of my children would take Wabby in. And, should anything ever happen to one of them, I would take in their pets. Not all family members feel that way. Do you? And, what about the cost of caring for a pet - not everyone can afford to take in a few dogs and cats, especially in these tough times.

As we move forward into the second half of 2009, I hope we all take into account the fact that protection for our dogs and cats is out there. Pet Health Insurance, like PurinaCare®, is one way to protect our pets - from suffering needless health issues that could be covered by the insurance.

But, what is available to make sure they are cared for in our absence, should that come suddenly? One would expect a "will" would suffice, but seriously, shouldn't we all prepare ahead of time and get permission from one family member or one best friend, that they will take care of our pets for us, and make sure they do not suffer the double atrocities of losing their master and also being put out for adoption.

Shouldn't we?

p.s. by the way, Darby did find a new home - and the Internet played a bit part in that!