Estate Planning Advice From High Stride Law’s Equine Attorneys

Most horse owners in Cass County spend countless hours planning their riding schedules, training goals, and dietary needs for their equine partners. However, very few stop to consider what might happen to those animals if the owner were no longer around to care for them. At High Stride Law, we understand that your horse is more than just an asset in a pasture; they are a member of your family that requires specialized attention. Finding a knowledgeable equine attorney in Logansport, IN is the first step toward ensuring your horses are protected from the uncertainty of probate and family disputes.

It might feel cold to think of your beloved gelding or mare as inventory, but Indiana law generally classifies horses as personal property. Without a specific plan in place, your horse is treated no differently than a tractor or a piece of antique furniture during the estate settlement process. This classification can lead to significant problems because, unlike a tractor, a horse cannot sit in a garage unattended for months while attorneys and family members argue over the distribution of assets. They need daily feeding, turnout, and veterinary care, which costs money and requires immediate decision-making power.

Many equestrians assume that a standard will is enough to protect their stable, but it has limitations when it comes to living animals. A will must go through probate, a court-supervised process that can take months or even years to complete. During this gap, your horse’s ownership is in limbo. If funds are frozen until the estate settles, the cost of boarding and feed falls on family members who may not have the financial means or the desire to maintain a high-performance animal. This financial strain is often the primary reason cherished horses end up sold at auction or given away in haste.

Indiana statutes allow for the creation of a trust specifically designed for the care of an animal. This legal tool provides a much higher level of protection than a simple bequest in a will. A pet trust allows you to set aside a specific amount of money dedicated solely to your horse’s expenses. You can appoint a trustee to manage the funds and a separate caregiver to handle the day-to-day needs of the animal. This separation of duties ensures that the money is used exactly as you intended. You can even leave detailed instructions regarding diet, veterinary preferences, and retirement plans, ensuring your horse maintains the quality of life they are accustomed to.

Ignoring this aspect of estate planning does not make the risk go away. By taking proactive steps today, you provide peace of mind for yourself and security for the animals that depend on you. Whether you own a single retiree or a barn full of competitors, you need a strategy that reflects the unique challenges of the horse world. If you are looking for an experienced equine attorney in Logansport, IN to help draft a plan that stands up to scrutiny, we are here to help you navigate these sensitive decisions.

Don’t leave your horse’s future to chance. Contact High Stride Law today to schedule your consultation and build a legacy that protects every member of your family.