What happens to my pets when I die?
Your pets are considered to be your personal property, which means that you can leave your pet to a friend or family member in your last Will and testament. However, unlike other assets, pets come with responsibilities and an ongoing cost for their care. So you may also choose to leave an additional sum of money in your Will to cover the ongoing costs throughout the animal’s lifetime (such as food, vet fees, etc.). You will need to choose someone you trust, as there is no guarantee that they will actually use the funds to care for your pet when the time comes, unless you set up a very formal trust (which would have ongoing administrative fees). If you do not have anyone suitable in mind, certain charities are also able to assist with rehoming your pets if you pass away. At Estate First Lawyers, one of our Will lawyers can discuss these options with you and arrive at a solution that best suits your needs.