Q: My Grandmother with Alzheimer's can no longer care for our elderly family dog. Can I bring her to live with me?
I am her granddaughter, whom she raised like her own daughter. My Grandma was recently moved to a memory care facility where she cannot keep her pet. Callie is now staying with my uncle (her eldest son and Executor of her will). It is my intention to bring Callie to live with me. I grew up with her and my Grandma. Now, my uncle is resisting my efforts to assume responsibility for her. Uncle is also wanting to sell off Grandma's possessions. (In her will, all possessions, Jewelry, furniture, etc. Go to her grandchildren.) In the very beginning, I paid $400 of my own savings to help with Callie's adoption fee. Grandma paid $200. Does that make her both inheritance and my dog?
I know it's a lot and complicated. I really just want to bring my girl home. This has been very confusing to navigate with all the pressure.
Any help is appreciated.
Sincerely,
Lyn
A: I assume that someone has power of attorney for your grandmother with regard to decisions regarding her property, or perhaps a conservatorship has been established. Whomever has been given those decision making responsibilities can decide what happens with your grandmother's property, including the dog. If there is no one in that position, then a conservatorship should be established so that someone with legal authority can make decisions about the property and dog.
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