Gifts and Bequests for Pets

Pets are a very special part of our lives. For many people their beloved pet is a member of their family. Stephanie Rendell, Associate Solicitor and Head of the Will & Estates Team for RNG Lawyers, discusses how you can provide for your pets after your death.

It is not possible to gift money and property to a pet directly, however it is possible to provide for your pet and their ongoing care in your Will. This can be achieved in a number of ways, including setting up a Trust for your pet that will pay for its ongoing expenses and needs or alternatively, making a gift to a person or entity on the condition that they take over responsibility for your pet when you die.

It is also possible to come to arrangements with certain animal protection agencies and other groups for them to arrange to re-home your pet after you die.

It is also possible to make a donation in your Will if you wish to an entity that looks after pets, either specifically your pet or in regards to animals more generally.

If you would like to make provision for your pets or for animals more generally, we strongly recommend you make an appointment with RNG Lawyers to discuss your estate planning, including the options for animals and pets. 

Please contact the RNG Lawyers Team for an appointment.