How the law views pets

In most legal systems, pets are treated as property. That can sound cold, but it simply means they are part of a person’s estate, just like a car or furniture.

In real life, of course, pets are family. Most people will do their very best to keep them safe and loved.

A pet owner can use their Will to:

• Name who should care for their pets after they die.
• Leave money to help with food, vet bills, and insurance.
• Set out any special wishes or instructions.

Step 1: Who looks after the pet right away?

The first question after someone dies is simple: “Who is looking after the pet right now?”

Usually, this will be:

• a family member
• a close friend
• a neighbour
• someone who already knows the animal

If nobody close is available, the police or local authorities may step in and arrange temporary care through animal services or shelters.

This is why naming an Emergency Pet Carer and writing down basic care instructions in advance can make such a difference.

Step 2: The executor checks the Will

The executor of the estate is responsible for carrying out the person’s wishes.

Once the Will is found, the executor will look for:

• any instructions about pets
• the name of a chosen pet guardian
• any money set aside for pet care

When these details exist, the next steps are usually clear and calm.

Step 3: If a pet guardian is named

If the Will names someone to care for the pet, that person is contacted and asked to become the pet’s new long-term guardian.

Often, the Will also leaves a small sum of money or a more formal pet trust to help with:

• food and treats
• insurance and vet bills
• medication or special diets

This reassures the guardian and the family that the pet’s needs are recognised and supported.

Step 4: If no plans were made

If there are no instructions about pets, the executor has to decide what to do next.

This can involve:

• asking family and friends if they can take the pet
• speaking to neighbours or people who know the pet well
• contacting animal charities, rescue centres, or shelters

Many organisations have special programmes for pets whose owners have died and will work to rehome them safely and responsibly.

Step 5: What if there are multiple pets?

When there is more than one pet, especially if they are bonded, the executor and any charities involved will usually try to:

• keep bonded animals together where possible
• minimise disruption and stress
• find homes that can cope with more than one pet

Again, written wishes and clear information can make these decisions much easier for everyone involved.

Step 6: Who pays for the pet’s care?

Until a permanent arrangement is made, the cost of caring for the pet usually comes from the estate. That might include:

• food and day-to-day care
• veterinary treatment and medication
• temporary boarding or kennels if needed

This helps protect temporary carers from unexpected costs during an already emotional time.

The emotional side – for pets and people

Pets feel loss and change too. They can become anxious or unsettled when their person is no longer there, and their routines change.

Simple things can help a lot:

• keeping to familiar feeding times
• using the same food and treats
• bringing favourite blankets, toys, or beds
• gently introducing new people and places

When a new guardian has access to notes about the pet’s habits and needs, it becomes much easier to help the animal feel safe again.

Why planning ahead matters

Planning for your pets does not mean expecting the worst. It simply means caring for them properly, right to the end.

Clear information about your pets:

• reduces panic and guesswork for loved ones
• prevents rushed or emotional decisions
• protects your animals at a very vulnerable time

It is one of the kindest gifts you can leave for both your pets and your family.

A gentle next step for pet owners

If you have pets, you might like to take a few quiet minutes to write down:

• who you would trust to care for them in an emergency
• their routines, quirks, and medical needs
• vet details and insurance information
• what you would like to happen to them in the long term

Storing this safely in a secure digital vault, alongside your other important information, can bring real peace of mind to you and those you love.

You don’t have to do everything in one go. Even a few notes are better than leaving your family to guess.