There is a common myth that planning for pets belongs later in life or only with complex estates. In truth, a few clear lines in your Will can avoid confusion and make sure your pet’s care is sorted if something was to happen to you.
A Will is a control document. It lets you choose who will care for your pet, how their costs are covered, and what should happen next if you are not there to decide.
Angelika Simpson, Solicitor & Team Leader of our Wills Trusts and Probate department, explains the simple steps that protect your pet and give you peace of mind.
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What does the law say about pets in a Will?
Under the law in England and Wales, pets are treated as property. That means you can’t leave money directly to your dog, cat, or any other animal. What you can do is choose who takes ownership of them and how their care will be funded.
Most pets count as personal belongings rather than business assets, which is why it is important to name the right person to receive them in your Will.
What is the simplest way to protect your pet in a Will?
The easiest and most effective step to protect your pet when making a Will is to name a trusted carer. It’s important that you speak to them beforehand to make sure they’re willing and able to take on the responsibility.
It’s also wise to name a reserve carer, just in case your first choice can’t help when the time comes.
Clear instructions make things far easier for your executors and prevent uncertainty or disagreements.
How can I leave money in my Will for my pet’s care?
You have a couple of options:
1. A cash gift to the carer
You can leave them a set amount, supported by a simple letter of wishes explaining how you’d like that money used, for things like food, insurance, or veterinary bills.
The letter isn’t legally binding, but carers usually appreciate the guidance.
2. A small trust for your pet’s needs
If your pet may have higher or long‑term costs, like horses or long‑lived pets such as parrots, a trust gives added structure. A trustee releases money specifically for the pet’s care, rather than giving a lump sum directly to a carer.
What charity schemes can help if I don’t have a pet carer?
If no individual carer is suitable, some charities can help.
Dogs Trust: Canine Care Card
This scheme promises to care for and rehome your dog if you can’t. Your Will needs to include the correct wording so the charity can act.
RSPCA: Home for Life
The national scheme has closed to new registrations, but existing registrations are still honoured. Some local branches also offer rehoming services, so it’s worth checking the latest information before relying on this option.
What common mistakes should I avoid when future planning for pets?
- Not naming back‑up carers: Always include a reserve option in case your first choice can’t help.
- Trying to leave money to the pet: Animals can’t inherit, leave funds to a carer or set up a simple trust instead.
- Forgetting a letter of wishes: Include key details like diet, medication, routines and microchip numbers, it makes life much easier for the new carer.
- Letting things go out of date: Review your plans after major life changes and update your Will or letters of wishes as needed.
What extra planning steps can make my pet care easier?
Planning ahead with a few practical steps can make caring for your pet far simpler for the people you trust, ensuring they can step in quickly and confidently if anything happens to you.
How do I make sure my executors can act quickly?
Give your executors permission in the Will to release the pet to the named carer immediately. Add the carer’s details and your vet’s details to a simple information sheet stored with the Will. This saves time when decisions need to be made quickly.
What should I consider about insurance and ongoing costs?
Check the policy terms for pet insurance and microchip records. Leave instructions to keep premiums paid until the transfer to the new carer is complete, so there is no gap in cover. A modest legacy for initial costs can help with food, transport and a check-up at the vet.
What if I have a long-lived or high-maintenance pet?
Some animals need specialist care or may live for many decades. If you have a horse, a tortoise or an exotic pet, a small trust with a trustee who understands the likely costs can be sensible. Set out the priorities in a short letter of wishes and nominate a reserve carer with suitable experience.
What if my pet has more than one owner?
If you and another person share ownership of a pet, set out what should happen if one of you is not able to care for the animal. A short side letter can confirm that the survivor keeps day to day care, with the Will naming the same person as the carer to avoid confusion later.
How can I plan for my pet if I lose capacity?
Alongside your Will, consider putting a Property and Financial Affairs Lasting Power of Attorney in place. This allows your trusted attorney to pay for pet care from your funds if you cannot manage your finances yourself. Talk to our team about arranging this at the same time as your Will so everything works together.
What information about my pet should be included in my Will?
Your Will and supporting documents should include:
- The full name and contact details of your chosen carer and your reserve carer
- The amount of any gift or the outline of any trust and who will act as trustee
- Authority for your executors to transfer your pet to the carer immediately
- A short letter of wishes with microchip number, vet, routine, diet, medication and any behaviour notes
How can Jackson Lees help you plan properly for your pet’s future?
At Jackson Lees, we know how much your pet means to you, and we make sure your Will reflects that. Our team will clearly set out who should care for your pet and give your executors the authority to act immediately, so your companion goes straight to the person you trust.
If you want to make sure your pet will always be cared for, our specialist team is here to help. Please give us a call, request a callback or make an enquiry, and we’ll make the process straightforward from start to finish.