This article chronicles the evolution of enforcing after-death gifts for the benefit of pet animals. Part II reviews the common law background.If you are a pet parent, you'll feel better knowing you've done the planning to protect your pet after your death. A letter of instruction is a document that lists all relevant financial information that your family members or executor need if something happens to you. A legally sanctioned arrangement providing for the care and maintenance of companion animals in the event of a person's disability or death. This guide is designed to teach you how to write a letter of instruction for heirs, or anyone else who may benefit from a little more direction. You will need to complete and sign an Affidavit of Small Estate, attaching a copy of the Will and certified copy of the death certificate. Official website of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Dear Heloise: I have always travelled extensively and have a shoebox full of postcards that I have collected but never sent. On Thursday afternoon, the Kenneth Fire started in the San Fernando Valley.