If Something Happened to You… Where Would Your Dogs Be?

A Responsible Stewardship Reminder from EverOak

At EverOak Labradors & Sussex Spaniels, we believe loving your dogs means planning for their future — even in circumstances we pray never occur.

Life can change in an instant. A simple trip to the store, an unexpected illness, or an emergency could leave others responsible for your dogs with little to no instruction. Preparing now protects them later.

Below is a thoughtful checklist every EverOak family should consider.

Daily Care Information – Make It Visible

Keep a large, clearly visible whiteboard or care station that includes:

• Each dog’s name
• Food brand and exact feeding amount
• Medication name, dosage, and schedule
• Heartworm prevention date
• Any special instructions
• If food is stored in containers, clearly label each container with the exact brand and formula.
• If certain dogs cannot be together, clearly list:
• Who can go out together
• Who must be separated
• For intact females, record: Date of last heat cycle

Veterinary & Insurance Information

Post clearly:

• Primary veterinarian name and phone number
• Any specialty or emergency clinic information
• Pet insurance provider and policy details
• Make medications easy to locate, with dosing instructions attached.

Identification & Records

Each dog should have:

• AKC registration papers
• Microchip number and registry information
• Vaccination records
• Health clearance certificates (OFA, cardiac, eyes, etc.)
• If you own a microchip scanner, note where it is stored.
• Label crates or kennels with each dog’s name. In an emergency, identification must be simple and unmistakable.

Legal & Long-Term Planning

With your AKC records and estate planning documents:

• Designate a trusted individual responsible for your dogs
• Name an alternate in case your primary person is unable
• Inform them where all documentation is located
• Be specific about your wishes:
• Co-owned dogs return to co-owner
• Seniors placed with specific family members
• Young dogs spayed/neutered and placed in approved homes
• Clear rehoming expectations if necessary
• If desired, please complete the AKC Statement of Legal Rights by clicking on the form and keep it with your documents.

Personal Property & Breeding Assets

If you are active in the breed, also document:

• Who receives your Labrador books, awards, artwork
• What happens to breeding equipment or kennel supplies
• Which items go with each dog (crate, collar, toys, bed, etc.)
• Clarity prevents confusion and protects your legacy.

Granting Access

If the designated caretaker does not live in your home:

• Provide a key in advance
• Leave written authorization granting them authority over your animals
• Consider having the letter notarized

Most Important: Keep It Updated

Review and update all information periodically.
Outdated instructions can be just as problematic as no instructions at all.

Planning ahead is not pessimistic — it is responsible stewardship. At EverOak, our commitment to our dogs extends beyond today. We encourage every family to safeguard their future with the same devotion.

Rooted in Faith • Committed for a Lifetime