6 Famous Pet Trust Cases and What They Teach Us About Protecting Your Pets

Pet trusts were once seen as the eccentric indulgences of the wealthy, but today, they are recognized as a practical part of estate planning. In 2016, Minnesota became the last of the 50 states to legally recognize pet trusts. However, not all pet trusts perfectly reflect the owner's intentions. Let’s explore six famous pet trust cases and learn how to create a plan that truly protects your pets.

1. Leona Helmsley and Trouble
   Leona Helmsley, known as the “Queen of Mean,” left $12 million in a trust for her Maltese dog, Trouble, after her death in 2007. However, a judge later reduced Trouble’s inheritance to $2 million and distributed the rest to Helmsley’s grandchildren and charity. Trouble was cremated rather than buried in the family mausoleum, as Helmsley had wished.

Lesson: Leaving an excessive sum to a pet can lead to legal challenges and family conflicts. It’s important to leave a reasonable amount based on the actual cost of care for your pet’s remaining years. Discuss any disinheritance plans with your attorney to make them as solid as possible.

2. Michael Jackson and Bubbles
   Michael Jackson famously cared for his chimpanzee, Bubbles, and reportedly left $2 million in his estate plan for Bubbles’ care. Bubbles now resides in a Florida sanctuary, with ongoing speculation about who covers the costs—Jackson’s estate or his family.

Lesson: Using a trust helps maintain privacy regarding your estate’s details, preventing public scrutiny.

3. Karla Liebenstein and Gunther III
   German countess Karla Liebenstein allegedly left her $65 million fortune to her German Shepherd, Gunther III. The estate has since grown to $400 million and passed down to Gunther VI. However, many believe the story might be a hoax.

Lesson: Pet trust benefits can extend across generations, so ensure your estate plan clearly reflects your intentions for future pets.

4. David Harper and Red
   David Harper, a wealthy but reclusive bachelor from Ottawa, Canada, left his entire $1.1 million estate to his tabby cat, Red, by bequeathing the money to the United Church of Canada with instructions to care for the cat.

Lesson: You can be creative in ensuring your pet receives proper care after your passing by designating trusted organizations or individuals to manage their care.

5. Maria Assunta and Tommaso
   Italian widow Maria Assunta adopted a stray cat named Tommaso and left him her $13 million estate when she passed away. She named her nurse as Tommaso’s caretaker after failing to find a suitable animal organization.

Lesson: Don’t assume someone will automatically care for your pet. Plan ahead by choosing a reliable caretaker and putting your wishes in writing.

6. Patricia O’Neill and Kalu
   Patricia O’Neill, a British heiress, planned to leave $70 million to her chimpanzee, Kalu, and other pets. However, she discovered that her fortune had been squandered by a dishonest financial advisor, leaving her broke.

Lesson: Ensure your financial plan aligns with your estate plan and closely monitor your advisors to protect your assets.

Protecting Your Pets with a Pet Trust
Establishing a pet trust is the most reliable way to ensure your pets are cared for after your death. If you haven’t yet made arrangements for your pets in your estate plan, now is the time. A Nevada trust attorney can help you set up a new pet trust or incorporate one into your existing plan. Contact us today to safeguard your pets' future.