Pets, especially dogs and cats, often quickly become family members. It makes sense to ensure they are taken care of after your death. Yet many people have no plan in place, and some pets outlive their owners. Pets are often overlooked in estate planning, but including arrangements for them is important. This blog looks at how to include your pets in your estate planning.
Do You Put Pets In Wills?
When someone passes away, pets can sometimes be overlooked, but they should always be considered. You can include provisions for your pets in your will if you own pets and are worried about how to provide for them after you pass away. The first step is to determine who can (and wants) to take care of your animals. For instance, it is not ideal to have your energetic dog move in with a single person who works long hours or to have your cats move into a flat on the tenth level.
You should talk to the person you have in mind once you’ve decided who would be best placed to care for your pets. This allows them to let you know if they feel uncomfortable. This reduces the likelihood that your pets will be placed in a shelter because their caretakers are unwilling or unable to provide for them. Someone may enjoy dogs but not be in a position to own one. Perhaps they intend to create a family, have small children, or have other pets. They travel frequently, so maybe the dog daycare costs are high. This should all be taken into account.
Designating a beneficiary and a substitute beneficiary is a smart way to ensure your pet is cared for. You have a backup in case the first person is unable to assist or dies first. It is a good idea to do so if at all possible, but not everyone will have this option.
If you are considering making a legally valid will, it is important to ensure your pets are properly provided for within the document.
Financial Support for Your Animals
Pets are expensive, particularly if you own a large dog, several pets, or animals with specific needs or medical conditions. To aid with veterinary expenses and your pet’s dietary needs, you can leave a cash gift to the beneficiary who will take care of your pets. This should be conditional upon their agreeing to care for the pet following your passing. A Letter of Wishes, which is kept with the will, can contain any special instructions you wish to state to the recipient.
In the event of your death, you can leave your pet or pets to a certain charity if no one can care for them. Pet owners can register their animals in the RSPCA’s “Home for Life” program to help find new homes for them after they pass away.
For tailored estate planning advice, speaking to a professional can help you structure arrangements that protect both your family and your pets.
For help with estate planning, contact Probate London on 0208 0171029.
