Love for Life Program
Heartland Animal Shelter’s Loved for Life Program offers pet owners peace of mind by ensuring their beloved companion animals will be safe and cared for in the event of the owner’s serious illness or passing. Through this program, you can designate Heartland Animal Shelter as the future caregiver for your cat or dog, should no other guardian be available.
To enroll, please complete the notification form below and email your estate documents or relevant pages to [email protected]. The program requires a bequest agreement with a financial commitment of $5,000 per animal. Your planned gift will not only support your pet’s needs during this transition but will also establish a lasting legacy, enabling Heartland Animal Shelter to continue its mission of caring for other homeless companion animals for generations to come.
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How the Program Works
Upon the passing of a pet owner enrolled in the Loved for Life Program, Heartland Animal Shelter will:
- Take custody of the pet(s) named in the agreement.
- Provide necessary veterinary care, comfort, and emotional support during the transition.
- Place the animal in a loving new adoptive home.
- Ensure the pet’s health, safety, and well-being remain the top priority.
Steps to Enroll and Secure Future Care for Your Pet
To enroll in the Loved for Life Program, follow these important steps:
Include Heartland in Your Estate Planning
Work with your attorney or estate planner to name Heartland Animal Shelter as a beneficiary in your will, trust, or other estate documents. You must designate a minimum gift of $5,000 per pet to the shelter. This contribution supports the cost of caring for and rehoming your pet, as well as other animals in need. Download an Example Estate Planning Provision.
Notify the Shelter of Your Estate Plans
Once your estate documents are complete, email a copy of the relevant pages (or a letter from your attorney confirming the designation) to Heartland to be included in your record with us. This ensures Heartland can fulfill your final wishes.
Inform Your Family and Executor
Let your family members and the executor of your estate know about your arrangements with Heartland Animal Shelter. Provide them with the shelter’s contact information to ensure a smooth transition if necessary.
Complete the Loved for Life Questionnaire
Fill out a 30-second online notification form and indicate that you have included Heartland Animal Shelter as the future guardian of your animal/(s), or express interest in learning more, and a staff member will contact you.
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