Pets are often treated as members of the family, especially by people who may be separated from relatives or rely on their animals for companionship. Many owners want to ensure their beloved pets are cared for when they are gone and hope to leave their inheritance to something they truly care about.
So, can a pet receive an inheritance? The answer is no. Pets cannot legally inherit money or property. However, there are recognised ways to ensure your pet is cared for after you pass away. This article explains what the law allows, includes a real case study, and outlines how you can protect your pet through effective estate planning.
Why pets can’t inherit money
In the UK and most countries, pets are legally considered as personal property, not legal entities. That means they cannot directly inherit money, assets, or property in a will.
That means they can’t:
- Own assets
- Open bank accounts
- Sign legal documents
- Be direct beneficiaries in a will
Case study: Karl Lagerfeld’s beloved cat, Choupette
Karl Lagerfeld, the famous French fashion designer who died in 2019, was reported to have set aside about $1.5 million to look after his cat, Choupette. Some reports even suggested she might receive part of his estate. However, seven years after Lagerfeld’s death, Choupette has still not received her inheritance. The contents of Lagerfeld’s will and the amount intended for Choupette remain uncertain due to the documents being confidential. According to the French law, animals cannot directly inherit. Although, a person may also choose to leave assets to a caretaker with instructions on how the animal should be looked after as part of their final wishes. You can read more about the case study here.
How you can leave money for your pet
Write a will with pet care provision: Pet owners can name a caregiver in their will so they can take ownership of the pet. This may include leaving a gift to the caregiver to cover the pet’s ongoing care.
Create a pet trust: You can include a clause in your will that sets up a trust for your pet. This involves appointing trustees to look after a sum of money and use it for your pet’s care during its lifetime. This includes vet bills, insurance and food for the pet.
Use an animal charity scheme: Many UK animal charities offer lifelong care schemes for pets after the owner has passed. This includes taking ownership of the pet and rehoming them.
Why planning for your pet matters
If you have no pet provisions in your will, your pet could face an uncertain future. Family disputes may arise over who should take responsibility for your pet’s care and the financial costs involved. It is important to select a caregiver carefully as some individuals may not be willing or want the responsibility of the pet.
If you pass away without a will and have no close family, your pet may be at risk of being abandoned or being placed in a shelter.
Final thoughts
Leaving an inheritance to a pet might sound amusing at first, but many people choose to do it. Some set aside funds for animal charities or create pet trusts to ensure their pets continue to receive proper care. For those without close friends or family, this can be an important part of estate planning. For more articles like this, click here.
