What will happen to your pets when/should you die?

Many of us tend not to think too much about our own death or indeed what will happen to any pets we may have at that time. If you are lucky, you will have a relative or friend who is able to take your pet into their home but what if this is not the case? Have you made any provision in your Will for your pets should you die? What are your wishes?

It can be a good idea when you make your Will to make provision or your wishes known concerning your pets in the event of your death. You may like to talk to relatives or friends to see if any one would be prepared to take your pets into their home should you die and these details could be noted in your Will. You may also like to make some financial provsion for future veterinary fees, etc.

If you die and no provision has been made for your pets, what happens then? Yes there are various animal charities around but many have very lengthy waiting lists these days due mainly to the present economic climate and they may not be able to take your pet into care at very short notice. Also, if you leave money to an animal charity hoping that they will care for your pets should you die, do please check that this would actually be the case and happen.

If you are reading these words, I hope that you will stop and think about your pets and what would happen to them in the event of your death and make plans accordingly. If you are not sure about what arrangements to make do please seek professional advice and make sure your wishes are known to your next of kin and/or friends, or a responsible person such as your solicitor.