Why every pet owner needs a Will

Pets are a source of comfort for many people. When we take them in as part of the family, they instantly hold a special place in our hearts. With their well-being at the forefront of our minds, it's worth considering what happens to your pet if you're suddenly not here.

What happens to your pet if you die without a Will?

On the chance that you pass away without naming a pet guardian in your Will, there are two key concerns about what happens to your pet:

• Your wishes go with you. You can’t communicate your choices on how you'd like your pet to be cared for.
• If no one is willing to step in, there's no control over where they will go. Your pet might end up in the pound or with an animal rescue organisation.

Benefits of pet owners having a Will

Along with the downsides listed above, there are also great benefits for pet owners who name a pet guardian in their Will. Some of these include:

1 . Greater control over your pet’s safety and security when you pass away

If you pass away without a Will, the Supreme Court would nominate an executor to administer your estate who will decide what happens to your pet. There's no guarantee they will understand your wishes and make the best decisions for your pet.

If you pass away with a Will but without appointing a pet guardian, then your pet may end up as the responsibility of the named beneficiary in your will who Will make the decisions for your pet.

That’s why naming a caretaker in your Will is the best way to control your pet’s safety and security. Make sure your appointed guardian for your pet is aware of your decision and discuss your wishes with them.

2. You can provide for your pet in your absence

Since your pet can’t inherit any of your assets, the named beneficiary can be left with money and resources to help care for your pet.

Creating a Will lets you leave detailed instructions for your beneficiary on how you want them to use the provision. It might be helpful to let them know how you'd like the money to be spent. That might be on your pet’s food, vet appointments and regular grooming.

Including your pet in your estate planning

There are options for you to plan for your pet to make sure your they have a good life after you die.

Ensure your estate plan includes:

• who will care for your pet
• resources and funds you will leave for their new caretaker
• information on how you'd like their new caretaker to look after them

You're also able to create a trust to provide for your pet after your death. The trust will need to be created in the name of the beneficiary you have nominated to care for your pet.

As well as being responsible for looking after your pet, your nominated beneficiary will also have control over the money in the trust. It is their legal responsibility to use the money in the trust for your pet’s care.

Safewill can help you

Safewill has made it easy and affordable for you to create a Will, especially for you to appoint a guardian for your pet. You can get started today.