Can you leave your estate to your pets? And How?
Many young people today choose not to marry or have children, but they do have pets — often treating them as their own children. But what happens to your pets when you pass away? How can you make sure your beloved companion is cared for, even when you’re no longer around?
Here are a few options to consider:
Appoint a trusted caretaker – In your will, you can name a person you trust to take custody of your pet. This gives you peace of mind knowing that someone you chose will look after them. You can then leave a sum of money or assets to that caretaker, with the condition that it is meant for your pet’s care.
Set up a trust – You don’t need to wait until after your passing to protect your pet. A trust can be created during your lifetime, and it can also cover times when you are too ill to provide care. Under the trust, the trustee (a person you appoint) holds the money specifically for your pet’s needs. The trustee could be a family member, a trusted friend, or even a professional trustee company. If you are hospitalised, the trustee can immediately step in and use the funds for food, veterinary treatment, or boarding.
Make an arrangement with animal welfare organisation – Some pet owners hope that an organisation can rehome or care for their pets after they pass away. If you are considering this, it is important to contact the organisation in advance to confirm whether such arrangements are possible, as most animal welfare groups focus primarily on general rescue and shelter work rather than taking in specific pets under legacy arrangements.
The Challenge of Enforcement
The reality is that pets cannot enforce their own rights. Your cat or dog cannot sue if they are neglected, or if the caregiver or trustee misuses the money. How well your wishes are carried out depends on the people you appoint and the safeguards built into your will or trust. If you are unsure what option is most suitable for your circumstances, it is wise to seek professional advice so your intentions are clearly protected.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice.
