From Paw Prints to Paperwork: How to make sure your pet is looked after when you’re gone

March 19, 2026

For many of us, a pet is part of the family. When you are making a Will, it is sensible to make clear what should happen to your pet in the event of your death. Under UK law pets are classed as “personal chattels” (property), so they cannot inherit money directly – but there are practical, well-used ways to make sure your pet is cared for and that funds are available for their welfare.

How to provide for your pet in your Will
  1. Name a “pet guardian”: Explicitly state in your Will who you want to take ownership of and care for your pet when you die. Make sure that person has agreed in advance!  This individual will be a beneficiary under your Will, but do be aware that a named beneficiary can refuse to take up their new role, so it is wise to name an alternative “pet guardian” too.
  2. Leave money to the “pet guardian”: You can leave a specific sum (or an item of property) to the “pet guardian” who you have asked to care for your pet. It is important to be careful and specific with the wording you use in such a clause, ensuring that the specific sum you leave is tied to the individual accepting to take care to your pet. It is best practice to speak to a solicitor to reduce the chance of such a cash sum being treated as a separate unconditional legacy to your chosen beneficiary.  In any event, it is also worth noting that there is little to stop a beneficiary from agreeing to look after your pet, taking the money, and then arranging to rehome your pet!  
  3. Make a Letter of Wishes: Record practical details in a Letter of Wishes for your Executor and chosen “pet guardian”. Look to include feeding routine, vet details, microchip number, medication, favourite toys, and behavioural notes. This letter isn’t legally binding but it should be followed by your chosen beneficiary and will assist them in caring for your pet, following your death.
  4. Leave your pet to a charity: Some charities will take responsibility for rehoming pets if an owner dies and leaving a gift to a charity that provides legacy pet services can be a practical safety net.
UK charities that can help you plan for your pet’s future after your death

Several major UK animal charities run schemes for pets whose owners have died or are no longer able to care for them:

  • Dogs Trust runs the Canine Care Card. This is a free registration service which guarantees that Dogs Trust will care for and rehome your dog if you become seriously ill or die. By including reference to this service in your Will provides clear and direct instructions for your Executors to follow.
  • Cats Protection runs a similar scheme to Dogs Trust, called Cat Guardians. Cat owners will need to register with the service in advance and, on an owner’s death, Cats Protection will take in your cat and find a suitable new home for them.
  • The Blue Cross offers a service called Pet Peace of Mind. This is a free registration service for up to four pets per household, including dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and other small pets. Under this service, the Blue Cross will take in your pets and match them with a suitable new home.  Their guidance includes registering details so Executors or loved ones can act quickly.
  • Battersea Dogs and Cats Home operate a service called Forever Loved which ensures that your pets will be cared for and rehomed if you pass away. Owners can complete an application form online or request a paper copy of the form. You will be asked to appoint a contact, being an Executor, family, friend or appointed pet guardian, who will inform the charity so they can act when needed.
  • RSPCA offers a Home for Life service. This is a free service where the RSPCA will take care of pets and rehome them if an owner dies. Owners need to register with the service in advance and include instructions in their Will for this service to be used.
  • The Cinnamon Trust offers a service that relates to care of your pet, should you be too elderly to care for it or if you become terminally ill. The Cinnamon Trust provide lifelong guardianship for your pet and find appropriate foster homes for them. They can also offer short-term foster care during hospital stays or periods of recovery. What’s more, they will cover vet bills for pets while they are under their care. All companion animals are included, even alpacas!
Steps to Secure Your Pet’s Future

Planning for your pet’s future is one of the most loving decisions you can make. By including a pet guardian, clear instructions in your Will, and registering with a reputable pet legacy scheme, you ensure that your companion will be cared for if you pass away or become unable to look after them.

At Herrington Carmichael, we can assist with providing carefully drafted Wills and Letters of Wishes to avoid disputes and give your pet the best chance of a smooth, loving transition. Taking these steps now means your pet will never face uncertainty, and you can rest assured knowing they’ll continue to receive the love and security they deserve. Should you require assistance, please contact us.

Nicole Miller
Legal Director, Private Wealth & Inheritance
<script>
document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function () {
  const deptEl = document.getElementById('acf-author-department');
  const department = deptEl?.dataset?.department;

  if (typeof gtag === 'function' && department) {
    gtag('set', { author_department: department });
  }
});


  window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
  const dept = document.getElementById("author-department")?.textContent?.trim();
  if (dept) {
    window.dataLayer.push({
      event: "authorDataReady",
      author_department: dept
    });
  }

</script>
View profileContact Us

This reflects the law and market position at the date of publication and is written as a general guide. It does not contain definitive legal advice, which should be sought in relation to a specific matter.

Latest Legal Insights