Just as we prepare for our children's future, our pets need a plan so that they can be taken care of, too.

On June 24, Gov. Linda Lingle signed a bill into law that allows pet owners to establish trusts for their pets.

Previously, money could not be left directly to your feathered or furry heir. You could only leave funds to a guardian to provide for the care of your pet, and there was no way to ensure that your wishes would be carried out. While you'd hope that the guardian you'd selected could be trusted, there was nothing to prevent funds from being used inappropriately — or in the worst-case scenario, to prevent your pet from being given away or sold.

Honolulu attorney Emily Gardner specializes in animal law and was instrumental in developing the bill and rallying the support of legislators.

"I first became interested in the issue after I began taking my dog to visit the elderly at St. Francis hospital," said Gardner. "Many people there have expressed how important their pets are to them. They want to be able to provide for them after they have died."

One tale inspired Gardner to get involved in the issue.

"A client shared a story on how her dog, Snowball, came into her life. While in Arizona, this woman befriended an elderly neighbor — Snowball's owner at that time, who had won more than $1 million through the lottery. The man left his estate to a distant nephew on the condition that he care for Snowball for life. When the elderly man died, the nephew refused to take Snowball or to help him find a good home. Knowing how important it was to ensure that Snowball would have a loving family, the neighbor opened her home to the dog and never asked for a dime."

In having the ability to name your furry and feathered heirs as a beneficiary in your trust, pet owners can enjoy the peace of mind that there's an enforceable means to ensure that your wishes are carried out should misfortune strike.

"This is a huge victory for those who care about animals, as the law not only gives us better peace of mind that our pets will be provided for according to our wishes, but it's a reflection of the rising status that pets are gaining in the family," says Pamela Burns, president and CEO of the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Setting up a trust for your pet is similar to creating one for a person. A trustee and caregiver are named. The trustee is in charge of finances and arrangement can be made for payments to the caregiver for pet expenses such as food, grooming and veterinary care. The trust can also name a third party to oversee the administration of the fund and to look out for the interests of the pet.

The Hawaiian Humane Society offers pet profile forms that spell out important information such as the pet's behavior, medical history, favorite toys, special dietary needs and other details that help your designated provider. The profile form, along with a copy of the trust, should be given to your chosen caregiver, neighbors, relatives and even your local humane society.

"After establishing the trust arrangements, pet owners should also remember to keep their trust up to date with current information," said Janet Hyrne, director of development for the Hawaiian Humane Society. "Check in with your designated caregiver to ensure that he or she is still agreeable to the responsibilities. They may move into a building where pets are not allowed or have had other lifestyle changes that may affect their commitment."

After the death of the pet, the remaining balance can go to a designated person, heirs or a charitable organization designated by the trust.

To receive a pet profile packet, call Hawaiian Humane Society at 356-2221.

For more on the society, visit www.hawaiianhumane.org. The Web site features a list of programs, upcoming events and Pets of the Week, and photos of animals available for adoption.

ROBERT

TAG NO. 68673

Here's a guy who will capture your heart. Robert is a big, handsome cat with mesmerizing green eyes and an outstanding striped tail. He enjoys the company of other cats and people. Robert can go home with you today!

HOBO JIM

TAG NO. 67176

Meet our Benji look-alike! Hobo Jim has movie-star good looks wrapped up in a small tan terrier body. At just 2 years old, he has energy to spare and would love to join an active family who will keep him busy.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open 7 days a week. For hours, directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www.hawaiianhumane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost and found animals.