Plan for Pets: Senior's Living, by Diana Gault

It was one of those "Aha!" moments. In the middle of long overdue estate planning appointment with my lawyer, I suddenly realized my pets, or at least one of them, might well outlive me.

So who would care for Chloe and Polly after I shuffled off this mortal coil? Most of my friends own condos or townhouses, in which pets are not permitted. My children and grandchildren all lead highly mobile , super-busy lives. More importantly, who would care for my pets in the manner they'd become accustomed?

The legal eagle wasn't much help; she suggested I "ask around" which I did single-mindedly, at every opportunity. Eventually I struck paydirt. A local merchant had heard the SPCA had "some sort of program."

I called the Victoria shelter and was referred to Senior Planned Giving Officer, John Houle. (Note: John Houle is her husband.) John quickly assured me that the BC SPCA does indeed have a program - the Pet Survivor Care Program.

Various plans are available, depending on individual requirements and financial resources. Under each option, the SPCA takes the pet in, has it checked over by their veterinary staff, and then, using the information on file, looks for exactly the right home.

The program provided the peace of mind I sought. How ever my future unfolds, I'm now secure in the knowledge that my pets will continue to be cherished for the rest of their lives.