According to a Harris Interactive Poll of American adults, nearly 80 percent of people over the age of 55 have made some plans for what will happen if they die or become incapacitated.

Some of those who are devoted pet owners have gone the extra step to make sure their animal companions are properly cared for by making their pets part of their estate plans.

Bette Choate is one example. She considers her cats part of her family.

"I'm 81 now, and who knows how long I'll be able to take care of them," say Choate.  Her plan calls for someone to live in her condo and care for the cats if she becomes incapacitated or dies.

Financial planner Ben Tobias said it's a good idea to designate your plan for your pets but advises not to pick the same person as both trustee and guardian.

"Nobody else may have that same love for the dog," explainsTobias. "And if it's a job, they could still do the job very nicely.  If they're not getting paid for it, they might not like it."

Since animals have a shorter life expectancy than people, Tobias says pet owners should also outline what will happen with their assets once the animal dies. "The one person that I saw who did this, once the animal would expire, the funds went to a charity supporting animals."

Choate took comfort knowing her cats would be cared for and the belief that they may one day be reunited.

"I love what I think Will Rogers said. If dogs don't go to heaven I want to go where they go. I'm with him and of course I'm including cats, too."

According to the Humane Society of the United States, every year 400,000 dogs and cats need to find new homes after their owners die.