Every year, tens of thousands of beloved pets are left without a home after their owner passes away. While it’s common to assume that a friend or family member will step in, the reality is that not everyone is in a position to take on a pet.
That’s why it’s so important to make a plan now, rather than leave it to chance.
By taking the steps now, you can have the peace of mind to know your pets will be well cared for and loved even when you’re not there.
In the UK pets are considered legal property which means you can ‘gift’ them in your Will but for other countries it’s best to check what the law states. We always recommend that you talk to a solicitor to ensure you can make an informed decision.
Here are a few steps you can take to protect your pet’s future:
Talk to loved ones: Have open conversations with friends and family about your wishes and whether they'd be willing and able to care for your pet.
Include your pet in your will: You can name a trusted person as a caregiver and even allocate funds for their ongoing care.
Set up a pet care provision: Consider setting up a pet trust or legal agreement outlining care instructions and financial support.
Register with a pet legacy service: Many UK charities like Dogs Trust offer free services that promise to take in and rehome your pet if they outlive you and you have no one else to leave your pet with.
If you don’t already have a Will in place, consider setting one up. It's quicker than you think and can give you peace of mind your pet will be taken of, no matter what happens.
At WVS we have a free Will writing service through Octopus Legacy. They make it as easy as possible and you can do it online, over the phone or in-person. You can find out more here
We also have a free Will guide that provides helpful advice so even if the time isn't right now, you have the information you need for the future.
Our pets mean the world to us, and it’s natural to worry that no one else could love them quite the same. Planning ahead ensures they’ll always be safe and cared for.