Estate Planning for Pet Owners: Including Pets in Your Will

For many of us, pets aren’t just animals—they’re family. They greet us at the door, keep us company through the ups and downs, and offer unconditional love day in and day out. So, it’s only natural to want to protect them just like we would any loved one.

Yet when it comes to estate planning, pets often get overlooked. Unlike children or other dependents, pets are considered property under UK law; which means they don’t automatically get any protection if something happens to you.

At LCS Legal, we believe your furry (or feathered) companions deserve a clear plan. Here’s how you can make sure your pets are safe, happy, and cared for…no matter what.

Why You Need a Pet Plan in Your Will

Let’s be honest: no one likes thinking about what would happen if they weren’t around. But if you’re a pet owner, not having a plan in place can lead to:

• Confusion about who should care for your pet

• Delays in getting them the attention and stability they need

• The risk of them ending up in a shelter or with someone who can’t manage their care
  

By including your pets in your estate planning, you take the guesswork, and stress, out of the equation for everyone involved.

How to Include Pets in Your Will

While you can’t leave money directly to your pet, you can:

1. Appoint a Pet Guardian

Choose someone you trust to take over care. It could be a friend, family member, or even a neighbor who knows and loves your pet. Be sure to:

• Ask them first (don’t surprise them in your will)

• Talk through your pet’s needs and routine
  

2. Leave Funds for Pet Care

You can leave a specific sum of money to the person who’ll care for your pet, with a request that it’s used for things like:

• Vet bills

• Food

• Grooming and other regular needs
  

This isn’t legally binding, but most people honour such wishes, especially if you’ve explained them clearly.

3. Set Up a Trust (Optional)

For more detailed planning, you can set up a discretionary trust where funds are released by a trustee for your pet’s care. This adds an extra layer of accountability and flexibility.

What to Include in a Pet Care Letter

A “letter of wishes” is a non-binding document that can go alongside your will. It’s where you can write all the little details your pet’s future carer should know:

• Favourite foods and treats

• Daily routine

• Medical needs or vet contact info

• Habits, quirks, fears, or behaviours to be aware of
  

This personal touch ensures continuity and comfort for your pet during a tough transition.

How LCS Legal Helps Pet Owners Plan Ahead

We understand that every pet, and every owner, is different. That’s why our estate planning services are built around you:

• We talk through your concerns and priorities

• We help you draft wills that reflect your full family, including the four-legged members

• We guide you on trusts, letters of wishes, and legal wording that covers every angle
  

We’re here to make sure your intentions are clear, practical, and legally sound.

Let’s Make Sure They’re Looked After—Just Like They’ve Always Looked After You

Thinking ahead isn’t just about your money or property. It’s about your values. And for many of us, that means making sure our pets are never left in limbo.

🔗 Book a free consultation with LCS Legal today. Let’s create a plan that protects every member of your family…tails and all.