Published on: 30th May 2017

Providing for your pet

Animals are a very important part of family life in the UK with roughly one in two households owning a pet. It is estimated that the UK has around 54 million pets and, as a nation, we take good care of our animals with the UK spending approximately £6 billion a year on them.

Whilst we take considerable care of them in life, it is important to think how you can continue to care for them after you pass. 48% of people who have not written a Will admit that they have just not gotten around to writing one yet. Furthermore, 18% of people feel that they do not have anything of value to leave, yet tens of thousands of pets each year risk becoming homeless when their owner dies. It is often assumed that family or friends will provide for your pet after you pass, however this is not always the case as not everybody is willing to take on the responsibility.

So how can you ensure that your much loved animal will be cared for? It is highly recommended for you to have a conversation with a family member or friend regarding caring for your pet after you have passed. This can help prepare them for the responsibility and ensures that both your wishes and your pet's welfare are taken into account after you pass. It is also wise to make family, friends or neighbours aware of any pets you may have, how to access them and care for them in the short term in the unfortunate event you are taken ill or pass away outside of your home. Furthermore, you may also wish to consider leaving an expression of wishes with your Will, instructing your executors and trustees on how you wish your pet to be provided for as well as details such as who their vet is and their daily routine. Here at Casey & Associates we understand the importance of pets. Should you want complete peace of mind that your animal is provided for, we can discuss with you a number of options regarding providing for your companion(s) in your Will. In UK law, domestic animals and horses are regarded as 'Personal Chattels'. Whilst you can't leave any money directly to your pets, you can include a bequest to the person who will be caring for them, which could help to cover the costs of your pet's vet bills and daily upkeep. At Casey & Associates, we can include a stipulation in your Will dictating that these funds are only to be used for the benefit of your pet whilst it is in their care or until the end of its natural life. Alternatively, you may also wish to consider creating a discretionary trust which would set aside a sum of money for the care of your pet. Commonly, your pet's new carer would be the trustee responsible for administering the funds during your pet's lifetime. Should you choose to do this, you may also wish to leave an accompanying letter giving guidance about what the funds should be used for and where you would like any remaining funds to go after your pet's passing.

If you own a pet, please do not hesitate to contact us regarding a visit from a Consultant to discuss how best to provide for your much loved companion. Please click here to book an appointment.

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