As far as a trust, I’m not sure, but I would think leaving the money to the animal gives the court more control if there is evidence of neglect or abuse by a guardian. If the money is left to one person with the provision that they care for the animals — that person could use the money for themselves until caught, and there might not be any required paperwork to prove that they used the money themselves. If there is a trust in the animal’s name, then monies can only be dispensed for itemized purchases relating to the animals’ needs, and the guardian’s job would be to care for the animals AND keep the books. If there is any question of neglect, the trust might provide better protection and documentation.

All of the cats that I’ve ever owned came off the street, and trying to find a new home for a cat is not easy. Oprah got her dogs from a breeder, but I imagine the dogs would be very happy to stay where they are instead of going back to the breeder. Oprah has earned enough money to support her dogs/other animals for life and still have lots of money left over to leave to all the charities that she helps. I wish I could do the same for my animals, but I do hope to leave them and their guardian enough to make them comfortable for their lifetime.

“If there is no one capable or willing to take this responsibility on, I’m sure the dog’s breeder would step up and do it without the inheritance.”

That statement would hold true if the dog was obtained from a breeder who follows Responsible Breeding practices. Yet another reason why the world would be a better place if the only dogs and cats being produced were being produced by Responsible Breeders.