AARF Golden Paw Society
Pet Guardianship Program
AARF knows that your pets are part of your family, and therefore you may want to plan and provide for them just as you would with any other member of your family. Sometimes it’s just not possible to make arrangements for pets with family members or friends, which is why you may designate that your animals be entrusted to the care of AARF through your will, trust, or other estate planning documents. By making such arrangements, AARF would be honored to include you as a member of our Golden Paw Society.
Pet Guardianship Overview
If you elect, upon your passing, your pet (dogs and cats only) can be taken into the care and protection of AARF with the ultimate goal of rehoming your pet through our organization. Your pet would receive a full medical and behavioral evaluation upon intake to determine the best outcome for their individual needs. We offer you our promise that we will do our very best to work diligently to place your pet in a loving foster home or with an adoptive family, care for your pet, and provide them a positive outcome to live out their lives in the most enriching way possible. We strive to keep bonded pets together, maintaining their companionship. We are committed to the health and happiness of every animal.
Enrollment in the Pet Guardianship Program
Have an estate planning attorney draw up a will or trust for you that names AARF as the guardian and caregiver for your pet(s).
Complete the Pet Biography Form for each of your animals. This information will enable us to ensure they continue to receive the best care possible and that this care be continued in their new adoptive homes.
Name AARF as a beneficiary of your will or trust, life insurance policy or retirement account and provide a copy of the pertinent pages to the AARF. We kindly suggest a minimum donation of $5,000 for the first pet and $2,500 for each additional pet. These contributions help us provide the best care and support for your pets as they transition into AARF’s care. Your pets will receive comprehensive medical and behavioral assessments to ensure they are happy and healthy.
Keep a copy of the Pet Biography Form with your will or trust and inform the executor of your estate or trustee of your intentions.
Including AARF in your final giving plans allows you to enjoy the benefits of a gift to charity while making a powerful statement about your love of animals.
Pet Guardianship Program FAQ
How does the program work?
Upon your passing, you can designate AARF as the guardian for your pets. We will conduct a thorough medical and behavioral evaluation to assess your pet’s needs. Our goal is to place your pet in a loving foster home or find an adoptive family that suits their individual requirements.
What types of pets are eligible for this program?
Currently, the program is available for dogs and cats only.
What happens after I submit my pet’s biography?
You receive a confirmation letter that your pet is enrolled and a magnet to place on your refrigerator to notify emergency personnel that pets should be brought to AARF in case of emergency.
We ask that you keep us updated on any health changes of your pet, or if you have changed veterinarians, so we can access the most recent medical records.
If a pet has passed away, or if you have added new pets to your household, please let us know.
What happens during the intake process?
It's important to schedule an appointment at AARF before bringing any animals into our care. This allows us to confirm that we have adequate space available - whether onsite or in a foster home - and that a team member is available to perform a behavior evaluation and a medical exam. Please contact us (24 to 48 hours prior to arrival) to arrange an appointment before arriving with your pet.
When your pet arrives at AARF, they will undergo a full medical and behavioral evaluation. This helps us understand their health, temperament, and any specific needs, ensuring we find the best match for them in a new home.
What steps will you take to support the well-being of my pets?
We are committed to the health and happiness of every animal. We aim to create a positive outcome, allowing your pet to thrive in their new environment. Given AARF’s nature as a foster-based organization, we have the ability to take the time to prioritize the right placements, and, among other things, to rely upon the foster family’s impressions of your pet to best match personalities to potential adoptive families.
What if my pet has special needs?
Our evaluation process helps us identify your pet’s unique needs, ensuring we can find the best possible home for them.
What happens to my pet after my passing?
After your passing, we will do our best to provide updates to your designated contacts about your pet’s journey and rehoming process.
Do I need to give annually if my pet is enrolled in the Pet Guardianship Program?
You do not need to give an annual gift, although we welcome your support?
Still have questions?
We’re here to help! Please email us at info@aarfws.org.