Our pets bring us so much joy, companionship, and unconditional love. Whether it’s a dog wagging its tail at the door, a cat curling up beside us, or a rabbit hopping around happily, pets are part of the family. They provide comfort in tough times, laughter with their quirks, and a sense of purpose in our daily lives. But what happens to them when we pass away?

It’s a difficult thought, but planning ahead can ensure our beloved pets are cared for even when we’re no longer here. In the UK, pets are legally considered property, which means they are part of an owner’s estate. Without clear instructions, they could end up in uncertain situations—including being placed in shelters or, in some cases, euthanised.

At The Farewell Guide, we’re here to help you navigate these important decisions and ensure your final wishes—including those for your pets—are clearly planned and communicated.

Including Pets in Your Will

One of the best ways to secure your pet’s future is to include them in your will. Here are some options:

1. Leaving Your Pet to Someone You Trust – You can name a friend or family member to take care of your pet and leave them a sum of money to help with expenses. It’s important to speak to the person in advance to make sure they are willing and able to take on the responsibility.

2. Setting Up a Pet Care Trust – A trust ensures that money is specifically allocated for your pet’s care and is managed by a trustee who ensures it is used appropriately.

3. Making a Conditional Gift – This means leaving your pet and some money to a person on the condition that they use the funds for the pet’s care. If they can’t meet the condition, the pet and money can pass to someone else.

Without a will, decisions about your pet’s future will fall to the executor of your estate, which may not always lead to the best outcome.

Charities That Can Help

If you don’t have someone to take your pet in, several UK animal welfare organisations offer schemes to help:

• RSPCA’s Home for Life – A free service where the RSPCA takes in and rehomes pets after their owner passes away.
• Dogs Trust’s Canine Care Card – Ensures Dogs Trust will care for and find a loving new home for your dog.
• Cats Protection’s Cat Guardians – A similar scheme for cats, offering care and rehoming.
• Blue Cross’s Pet Peace of Mind – Helps to ensure pets are looked after and rehomed after their owner’s death.

To take advantage of these services, owners should register in advance and mention the scheme in their will.

Financial Planning for Your Pet’s Future

Caring for a pet can be expensive, so leaving financial provisions in your will is a thoughtful step. Consider your pet’s needs, including food, vet care, and any ongoing medical costs. Allocating funds specifically for their care can help ease the burden on their future caregiver.

It’s also worth noting that inheritance tax may apply to money left for pet care. Seeking legal advice can help ensure funds are set aside in the most tax-efficient way.

Keeping Your Plans Updated

If you get a new pet after writing your will, make sure to update it so that all your animals are covered. Some wills use general wording like "all my pets" rather than naming specific ones, making it easier to keep things up to date.

Talking to your family and friends about your wishes is also key. This helps ensure everyone is aware of your plans and can take action if needed.

At The Farewell Guide, we encourage ongoing discussions about final wishes to ensure nothing is overlooked. When you make a plan with us you can then share it with those close to you, so everyone knows what's going to happen.

Preparing for Emergencies

Sometimes, an owner’s passing isn’t immediately known, which can leave pets alone for extended periods. To avoid this:

• Make sure your pet wears a collar with identification and emergency contacts.
• Let trusted neighbours or friends know you have pets so they can check in if needed.
• Carry a pet care card in your wallet with details of your pets and emergency contacts.

We believe in being prepared for all eventualities, ensuring that no pet is left without care in an emergency.

Peace of Mind for You and Your Pet

Thinking about what happens to your pet after you’re gone isn’t easy, but planning ahead means you can rest assured they will be cared for. Whether by naming a guardian in your will, setting up a trust, or registering with an animal welfare charity, there are many ways to secure your pet’s future.

At The Farewell Guide, we provide support and guidance to help you make informed decisions about your end-of-life plans. Our pets give us a lifetime of love—it’s only right that we do the same for them by ensuring they are safe and loved, even after we’re no longer here.

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