What happens to your pets when you’re not here?
For many of us, our pets are part of the family, offering companionship and unconditional love. However, when it comes to estate planning in England and Wales, it’s essential to make provisions for your furry friends, as pets cannot directly inherit money or property. Without a valid Will in place, the future care of your pets can become uncertain, leaving them vulnerable.
What Happens Without a Will?
If you pass away without a Will (known as dying intestate), your assets will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy in England and Wales. These rules make no provision for pets, meaning there’s no guarantee that your beloved animals will be cared for in the way you’d want. They could be left in the care of family members who may not be able or willing to take them in, or they might even end up in an animal shelter.
Pets Can’t Inherit Money Directly
Unlike in other countries, such as the United States, where some lucky pets have been left significant sums—such as the case of Leona Helmsley’s dog, Trouble, who inherited $12 million—pets in England and Wales cannot inherit directly under the law. This means you’ll need to make specific arrangements for their care in your Will.
Options for Looking After Your Pets
There are several ways to ensure your pets are taken care of after you’re gone:
- Leave Them to a Trusted Person
You can nominate a trusted friend or family member to take care of your pets. It’s wise to discuss this with the person beforehand to ensure they’re willing and able to look after your pet. You can also leave money to this individual to cover the costs of your pet’s care, such as food, vet bills, and insurance. - Set Up a Trust for Pet Care
While pets can’t inherit directly, you can set up a trust in your Will for their benefit. A trust allows you to allocate funds specifically for the care of your pet, with a trustee responsible for managing the money and ensuring it’s used as intended. This is a more formal way to ensure your pet’s needs are met for the rest of their life. - Pet Care Charities
There are charities in England and Wales that offer rehoming services for pets in the event of their owner’s death. Some examples include the RSPCA’s Home for Life scheme and Cats Protection’s Cat Guardians programme. You can register with these charities in your lifetime and leave instructions in your Will for your pet to be taken into their care.
Ensure Your Pets Are Protected
Estate planning isn’t just for distributing money and property—it’s about ensuring that the people and animals you care about are looked after. By including your pets in your Will, you can have peace of mind that they will be cared for according to your wishes. At SLS Wills and More, we can guide you through the process of creating a Will that reflects all your wishes, including the long-term care of your beloved pets.
For more information or to discuss your estate planning needs, contact us today. Your pets are a part of your family—make sure they are cared for, no matter what happens.
