When beloved actress Diane Keaton passed away on October 11, 2025, she left behind a $100 million estate – and ensured her dog, Reggie, would be cared for with the same comfort he enjoyed during her lifetime. Approximately $5 million was placed into a pet trust to guarantee Reggie would live out his days safely, comfortably, and exactly as Diane intended.
Just like any member of the family, pets deserve security, stability, and care. And under Wisconsin law, you can establish a legally valid pet trust to outline exactly how your animals should be cared for when you’re gone. These trusts remain in effect for the lifetime of the pet (or last surviving pet) and ensure funds are used exclusively for their benefit.
While some owners get carried away – Leona Helmsley famously tried to leave $12 million to her dog before a court reduced it to $2 million – most Pet Trusts are modest, thoughtful plans designed to provide comfort, routine, and quality of life.
With 66% of U.S. households owning at least one pet, planning for their future is more important than ever. A Pet Trust allows you to:
- Appoint a trustee to manage the funds
- Appoint a caretaker to love and look after your pet
- Provide detailed instructions for lifestyle, medical care, diet, routine, and more
- Ensure your wishes are legally enforceable
At Lin Law LLC, we put your whole family first—including the furry ones. If you want the peace of mind that your pet will be cared for according to your standards, we’re here to help you create a Pet Trust tailored to your goals.