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Roughly 3 in every 5 UK households own a pet, and for most pet owners, their pets are a beloved part of the family.

And like all family members, ensuring their welfare after the owner’s death is a common concern. You cannot just leave money to your pets, because the law treats them differently from people. However, UK law provides several practical ways to make sure pets are cared for when their owner is no longer around.

Below are the most effective options to leave money for your pet’s care, along with key considerations for each.

1. Write a Will with a Pet Care Provision

The most common way to arrange for a pet’s care is by including instructions in your Will. Because pets are legally considered “property” in the UK, they cannot directly inherit money, and any such bequest in a Will, will fail. Nevertheless, pet owners can:

• Name a caregiver in their Will: This person will take ownership of the pet.
• Leave a cash gift (legacy) to the caregiver: The gift is intended to cover the pet’s ongoing care. For example, “I leave £10,000 to my friend Sandra Adams, on the condition that she cares for my dog, Rover.”

While this method is simple, it relies on the goodwill of the caregiver. Furthermore, once the money is given, they are not legally obliged to spend it on the pet.

2. Use an Animal Charity Scheme

Some UK animal charities offer lifelong care schemes for pets whose owners pass away. These typically involve:

• Pre-registration with the charity
• A clause in your Will leaving your pet to the charity
• An optional financial donation to support the charity’s costs

There are a number of available schemes, for example, the RSPCA’s Home for Life scheme, the Cinnamon Trust's Lifelong Pet Care Scheme and the Dogs Trust’s Canine Care Card. These organisations rehome pets or care for them in foster settings. Leaving a donation alongside your pet assists these organisations with their work.

3. Write a Letter of Wishes

While not legally binding, a Letter of Wishes can accompany your Will and give detailed instructions about your pet’s daily routine, dietary needs, and personality. This document can guide the caregiver or charity in maintaining the pet’s quality of life.

4. Write a trust in your Will for the benefit of your pet

It is possible to consider leaving a clause in your Will appointing Trustees to manage a sum of money for the benefit of your pet and what happens after your pet dies. This can be a specific clause or a trust of your residuary estate.

Final Considerations

• Choose caregivers carefully – Always confirm that they’re willing and able to take on the responsibility.
• Update your plans – Revisit your arrangements as your circumstances or your pet’s needs change.
• Seek legal advice – Especially if setting up a trust or leaving significant sums.

When leaving an inheritance, whether to provide for your pets or to an animal charity, it is sensible to discuss your wishes with family members in the first instance. If they understand why you are doing it and what it will mean for them, it can help minimise the risk of any disputes. By planning ahead and using the right legal tools, you can make sure your pet continues to receive love and care long after you're gone.

At Curwens, our Wills and Probate solicitors can help you draft appropriate provisions in your Will to look after your pets when you are no longer here to do so. Contact Anne Stennett on: 020 8363 4444, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.