Pet’s Future: Plan Your Will Now

Posted: 30 April 2025

Only a quarter of pet owners have considered what will happen to their animals after their death: Taylor Haldane Barlex LLP warns that millions of pets are at risk

Millions of Pets at Risk Due to Lack of Will Provisions

Our Private Client experts at Taylor Haldane Barlex LLP is warning that a significant number of pet owners in the UK are leaving their beloved animals vulnerable after they pass away, with only a quarter (26%) of UK pet owners over the age of 30 having included provisions for their pets in their will.

Lack of Awareness: Pets as Estate Assets

The research, conducted by Censuswide on behalf of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, highlights that 59% of UK adults over 30 were unaware that pets are considered assets in an estate, meaning they cannot legally inherit money or property.

 UK Law Differs from Famous Pet Inheritances

Whilst Karl Lagerfeld famously left his fortune to his cat, UK law prevents pets from directly inheriting money or property. Instead, pet owners must make arrangements to ensure that their pets are cared for by a trusted person after their death, and these arrangements should be outlined clearly in a will.

 The Urgent Need to Include Pets in Your Will

The Association of Lifetime Lawyers represents a community of the most qualified legal professionals in the UK and is urging pet owners to take the necessary steps to protect their animals by including provisions for them in their will and discussing these plans with loved ones. This will ensure that pets are cared for according to the owner’s wishes and avoids any uncertainty over a pet’s future.

 Verbal Agreements Aren’t Enough Protection for Pets

Pets are often considered beloved family members, yet many owners neglect to make arrangements for their care after they pass away. Because the law considers pets as assets, even if friends or family have verbally agreed to take them in, without a formal plan in place, they might not be able to do so legally.

 How Your Will Can Secure Your Pet’s Future Care

A will provides a clear way to designate who you want to be responsible for your pet. It’s also essential to discuss this decision with that person to ensure they are willing and able to take on the responsibility. Within your will, you can include specific instructions regarding your pet’s care, such as their dietary needs, exercise habits, and medical requirements. In some situations, you might also consider allocating funds to help cover the costs of their ongoing care, either as a direct gift to the caregiver or by establishing a dedicated trust.

 Considerations for Pet Owners Making a Will

For pet owners looking to make legal arrangements for their animals, here’s some things to consider when making a will, view our guide on making a will. Contact our expert Private Client Services Team call 01702 298282 or send an email.