Guidance for Trustees

Guidance for trustees managing pet care nationwide, with Colorado focus.

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Key Trustee Responsibilities

Financial Oversight

Pet Trust for Life will distribute the funds as required to adopters. The trustee ensures we receive the monthly payment, reviews our records to ensure proper distribution, and reinvests surplus funds for inflation protection.

  • Ensure receipt of monthly payments from the trust
  • Review PTFL distribution records for proper allocation to adopters
  • Reinvest surplus funds for inflation protection

Pet Welfare Monitoring

PTFL will ensure check-ins are properly uploaded, vet care is received, and that living conditions meet standards. The trustee reviews these reports for informed oversight.

  • Review quarterly home inspection reports
  • Ensure adoptive home standards are maintained
  • Coordinate with veterinarians for ongoing care

Legal Compliance

Maintain fiduciary standards under Colorado trust law (C.R.S. § 15-11-901). We assist with annual filings and provide legal templates to simplify reporting.

  • File annual trust status reports
  • Document all decisions in trustee logs
  • Notify beneficiaries of fund distributions

Tips for Effective Trusteeship

Legal Best Practices

  • Consult an estate attorney for revisions to the trust document
  • Keep detailed records of all communications with facilities and vets
  • Understand Colorado's pet trust revocation rules if circumstances change

Financial Strategies

  • Use our inflation-adjusted calculators to establish baseline funding
  • Diversify investments within the trust to maintain purchasing power
  • Build in contingency funds for unexpected longevity or health needs

Dedicated Trustee Support

Our team provides quarterly consultations and full transparency.

Trustee consultation meeting with caring professional discussing pet trust plans