What happens to your family pets after you pass away?

Pets are important members of the family, so many people choose to consider them in your will. Pets can provide companionship and love to their owners, especially if they are elderly or single. However they can also be expensive, and could be inherited by someone who is not willing or able to care for them. This could lead to the pets being abandoned or neglected.

If you pass away without a will in England and Wales, your pets will be considered as part of your estate and will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. This means that your pets could be inherited by anyone who is entitled to inherit your estate, including your spouse, children, parents, and siblings.

If you write a will and have pets, it’s important to include a clause in your will that specifically states who you want to inherit your pets. This clause should be very specific and should include the name of the person or organisation you want to inherit your pets, as well as any specific instructions you have about their care.

Some people also choose to create a pet trust. A pet trust is a legal document that allows you to appoint a trustee to care for your pets after you die. The trustee can be anyone you trust, such as a family member, friend, or animal shelter. The trustee will be responsible for providing food, shelter, and veterinary care for your pets. However, it is usually much easier to simply leave an additional lump-sum gift in your will to the person who is inheriting your pet to cover any expected costs.

It is also important to make sure that your pets are microchipped and that you keep up-to-date contact information with the microchip company. This will make it easier for your pets to be reunited with their new owners if they go missing after you pass away. It’s not uncommon for pets to go searching for their old owners, especially if they have been with you for a long time.

Finally, it is important to talk to your family and friends about your wishes for your pets. Let them know who you want to inherit your pets and make sure they are aware of what is written in your will. This will help to ensure that your wishes are carried out after you pass away.