Wills and Pets: Protecting Your Furry Family Members
Introduction
Pets are often cherished members of the family, and planning for their care after your death is just as important as planning for your human loved ones. Many pet owners assume their animals will automatically be cared for, but without proper instructions in a Will, pets can be left unprotected.
This blog explains how to include pets in your Will, appoint caregivers, and provide for their financial needs to ensure they are looked after if you are no longer around.
Why Pets Need a Will
Pets cannot inherit directly
Under UK law, animals are considered property, which means they cannot inherit money or assets directly. Without a Will, your pets may be left without a designated caregiver.Peace of mind for pet owners
Planning ensures your pets continue to receive care, attention, and love from trusted individuals.Avoiding disputes
Clearly specifying who will care for your pets and providing financial resources prevents disagreements among family or friends.Financial planning
Pets can be expensive to care for, and including provisions in your Will ensures that their needs, such as food, medical care, or grooming, are met.
How to Include Pets in Your Will
Appoint a caregiver
Choose a responsible and willing person who will take care of your pet. Discuss this with them beforehand to ensure they are happy to take on the responsibility.Provide funds for care
You can leave money specifically for your pet’s care. It can be held in trust, allowing the caregiver to access funds as needed.Use a pet trust
A pet trust is a legal arrangement that specifies how funds should be used for the care of your pet. This ensures money is spent appropriately and protects your pet’s wellbeing.Include instructions for long-term care
Provide details such as dietary needs, exercise routines, medical requirements, and any behavioural or health information.Review and update regularly
Life changes such as moving, changing caregivers, or acquiring new pets should be reflected in your Will to ensure all pets are covered.
Common Mistakes Pet Owners Make
Not naming a caregiver
Leaving pets without a named caregiver can result in them being taken to a shelter or adopted by someone unknown.Failing to provide funds
Caregivers may struggle to meet your pet’s needs without allocated financial resources.Overlooking special needs
Pets with medical or behavioural conditions require clear instructions to ensure they receive proper care.Assuming family will handle it automatically
Even close family members may be unable or unwilling to care for pets if no instructions are provided.
Practical Example
Lucy, a 35-year-old cat owner, included her two cats in her Will. She:
Named her sister as their primary caregiver
Set aside funds in a trust for their care
Provided detailed instructions for their diet, medication, and daily routine
Appointed a secondary caregiver in case her sister was unable to take on the responsibility
This plan ensured Lucy’s cats were well cared for and her sister had the resources needed to provide proper care.
Tips for Including Pets in Your Will
Choose a trustworthy caregiver
Discuss responsibilities and make sure they understand the commitment.Allocate sufficient funds
Estimate costs for food, vet visits, insurance, and unexpected emergencies.Provide detailed instructions
Include medical, behavioural, and routine information to ensure consistent care.Consider professional advice
A solicitor can help set up a pet trust to legally protect funds for your pets.Update regularly
Pets’ needs may change over time, so review your Will periodically.
Conclusion
Your pets depend on you, even after you are gone. Including them in your Will ensures they are loved, cared for, and protected. Planning ahead provides peace of mind and prevents unnecessary stress for caregivers.
Next Step: Download our Free Will Guide PDF for guidance on including pets, digital assets, and loved ones in your Will, giving you peace of mind and protecting everything you care about.