And why not??! From Yahoo/AP:
Shouldn't your loyal dog Spot be able to live out his life in the manner to which he is accustomed if — hypothetically — you should meet your end first? Under a bill scampering through the Legislature, he will. The measure would allow Hawaii residents to leave a trust for the care of their pets after their owners pass on.Seventeen states already have similar laws, said Cynthia Keolanui, manager of community outreach for the Hawaiian Humane Society.
"Pets share our homes and are considered part of our family. As with any family member, when planning our estate, we want to make sure our beloved companion's future is secure," said Keolanui, speaking on behalf of the group.
However, there is currently no legally enforceable way in Hawaii to leave an inheritance to a dog or a cat, or any other pet.
Attorney Emily Gardner said she got behind the issue because of her experience visiting elderly long-term care patients at St. Francis Hospital with her dog, Toby, who works as a therapy dog.
Several of the residents expressed concerns to Gardner about the fate of their own pets.
But Gardner found there was no solid legal way to entrust money to a pet.
people here are very excited about this I wrote to our govenor and congressmen about it last year and they agreed as it is just one more way to properly look to your affairs prior to death. Its a smart thing and a wise one.
Posted by: Hokulea at March 29, 2005 12:30 AM