How to provide for pets in your will

For many people, pets are more than just animals—they’re family. But what happens to them if something unexpected happens to you? Making provisions for pets in your will guarantees they’ll be cared for, even when you’re no longer around.

If you haven’t thought about adding pets in your will, now is the time. Here’s how to make sure your furry (or feathered!) friends are looked after.

Can you leave money to your pet in a will?

Legally, pets are considered property in the UK, which means you can’t leave money directly to them. However, you can name a pet guardian in your will and set aside funds to cover their care.

This ensures your pet’s new caretaker has the financial support needed for food, vet bills, and other expenses. Without clear instructions, your pet’s future could be uncertain, or they may end up in a shelter.

How to choose a pet guardian

Selecting a guardian for your pet is one of the most important decisions when writing a pet provision into your will. This person will be responsible for your pet’s wellbeing, so it’s important to think carefully about who would be the best fit.

Picking the right person

Your pet’s new guardian will need to provide daily care, emotional support, and financial stability. Consider these factors before making your decision:

• Their willingness – Never assume someone will take on your pet. Have an open conversation with them to make sure they’re happy with the responsibility.
• Their lifestyle – Do they have enough space, time, and energy to care for your pet properly? A busy professional or frequent traveller might not be the best choice.
• Their experience – If your pet has specific care needs (such as a special diet, medical condition, or behavioural issues), does the guardian have the knowledge or willingness to manage them?
• Their financial situation – While you can leave money for your pet’s care, daily expenses like food, vet bills, and grooming can add up. Choose someone who can comfortably afford these costs.
• Their relationship with your pet – If possible, choose someone your pet already knows and trusts. This can make the transition easier for them.

What if you can’t find the right person?

If you don’t have a friend or family member who can take on your pet, there are other options:

• Pet legacy schemes – Charities like the RSPCA and Battersea offer rehoming services to match pets with loving new owners if their original owner passes away.
• Joint guardianship – You can name two people to share responsibility, ensuring your pet always has a home if one person’s circumstances change.
• Backup guardian – Even if you’re certain about your first choice, naming a secondary guardian in your will is a good idea in case your chosen person is unable to take on the responsibility when the time comes.

How to include pets in your will

Including pets in your will is simple, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid confusion or legal issues.

A well-written provision gives clear instructions and financial support for your pet’s future care.

1. Name a pet guardian

Clearly state who will take ownership of your pet. If possible, name a backup guardian in case your first choice can’t take them.

Without this, your pet may end up in a shelter or be given to someone who isn’t prepared to care for them.

2. Set aside funds for care

Decide how much money you’d like to leave for your pet’s expenses.

This can help cover:

• Food and treats – Routine costs for feeding your pet.
• Vet bills – Annual check-ups, vaccinations, and emergency medical care.
• Grooming – If your pet requires professional grooming, include this cost.
• Pet insurance – If your pet is insured, you may want to leave enough to continue payments.
• Toys, bedding, and accessories – Keeping your pet comfortable and happy in their new home.

Some pet owners also leave money for long-term needs, such as special diets, medication, or ongoing medical conditions.

You may want to speak with a will writer to determine the best way to structure this provision. The money can be given as a lump sum to the guardian or managed through a trust to release funds as needed.

3. Set up a pet trust (optional)

If you have multiple pets or a high-maintenance animal, you can set up a pet trust.

This legally binding arrangement allows money to be used only for your pet’s care. The trustee manages the funds and releases them to the guardian as needed.

This option is particularly useful if you’re leaving a large sum or want to prevent the money from being used for anything other than your pet’s wellbeing. A wills and trusts specialist can help if you want to create a formal arrangement.

4. Provide clear instructions for care

Leaving money is important, but so is making sure your pet’s new caregiver understands their needs.

In your will or a separate document, consider including:

• Your pet’s routine (feeding schedule, favourite treats, exercise habits).
• Medical history (current conditions, medication requirements, preferred vet).
• Behavioural notes (quirks, fears, favourite toys).
• Long-term wishes (any preferences for their future care, such as staying with certain family members).

This extra guidance can help your pet adjust to their new home more easily.

5. Keep your will updated

If your pet situation changes—such as adopting a new pet or if your chosen pet guardian can no longer take them—you should update your will accordingly. It’s also worth reviewing your will every few years to make sure all details are still relevant.

What happens if you don’t include your pet in your will?

If you don’t include provision for pets in your will, their future is uncertain.

Without a named guardian, your pet may be passed to your next of kin or placed in a shelter. If there’s no clear plan, relatives may not know what to do or may be unable to care for them.

This is particularly important if you have exotic pets or animals with specialised care needs, as not everyone will be equipped to look after them.

What if you don’t have a will?

If you pass away without a will, intestacy rules determine how your estate is distributed. This does not include provisions for pets, meaning their care is left to chance.

If you haven’t written a will yet, consider making your first will and including instructions for your pet’s future.

Final thoughts

Your pet depends on you, so planning for their future is one of the most responsible things you can do. By naming a guardian for your pet and setting aside funds for their care, you can rest easy knowing they’ll be in good hands.

If you need help getting started, a will writer can guide you through the process and make sure your wishes are legally protected.