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What's your PLAN?

Writer's picture: Illinois Horse Rescue Illinois Horse Rescue

Samson here, reporting for duty with your favorite “Straight From the Rescue’s Mouth” update!


So, apparently, some fuzzy little groundhog popped out, saw his shadow, and declared six more weeks of winter. But this past weekend was in the 50s! I thought, “Hooray! Spring is here!”—until I peeked ahead and saw nothing but 30s. Yikes. Now, I don’t mind the 30s too much, but those negative temperatures? Nope, not a fan. We all survived that brutally cold week! Although, between you and me, I wasn’t exactly complaining about the extra hay my pals and I got. More hay = happy Samson.


Now, onto the main topic of the month—having a plan! Listen, I know it’s not the most fun thing to think about (way less fun than, say, rolling in the mud or sneaking extra treats). But life happens, and it’s super important to have a plan for your furry, feathered, or even slightly mischievous four-legged friends in case you can’t take care of them. I mean, what would happen to your beloved pet if you were suddenly unable to care for them? Would they end up in a shelter? Would they be rehomed? Would they be left to fend for themselves in a world without unlimited snack breaks?


That’s where contingency planning comes in! And lucky for you, we’ve made it super easy with just three simple steps:


  1. Caregivers! Pick at least two trustworthy humans (because, let’s be real, humans can be unpredictable) AND a rescue or shelter willing to take care of your pet if needed. Having a backup plan for your backup plan is always a good idea.


  2. Written Instructions! Just like how I have a strict hay-to-treat ratio (50/50, obviously), your pet has specific needs. We’ve created a free form to jot down all the important details—food, exercise, medications, special quirks (like if they insist on sleeping on your pillow), and anything else that keeps their tail wagging, hooves happy, or feathers fluffed. You can grab it here: Contingency Plan Form.


  3. Financing! Every pet’s situation is different. Some caregivers might need financial help to care for your pet, while others might take them in no problem. Either way, you can set up an account with funds designated specifically for your pet’s care. Make sure there’s a Power of Attorney in charge of the account so no one accidentally spends it on, say, fancy coffee instead of Fluffy’s food.


Oh, and if you’re adding this to your will, have your attorney look it over—because while I may be an expert in snuggling and snack-seeking, I am not a lawyer.


Planning ahead = peace of mind for you and a safe, happy future for your pet. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some very important business to attend to (napping in a sunbeam).


Until next time, stay warm and stay prepared!

- Samson 🐴

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