Providing for pets in wills

More than half of households in England and Wales own a pet, and animals are increasingly regarded as integral to family and working life.

This webinar examines the legal framework in England and Wales relating to the provision for pets in wills and considers the key issues practitioners should address when advising on testamentary provision for family pets and working animals.

The webinar will explore the available mechanisms for ensuring animals are appropriately provided for after death, the limitations of the law in this area, and the importance of effective will-drafting to safeguard their ongoing care.

Topics covered include:

• Background
• Law for pets in England and Wales – property or persons?
• How to provide for pets in a Will
  • Identifying the pet
  • Who will look after the pet
  • Resources needed to look after the pet
  • Particular needs or upkeep required for the pet
  • Restrictions on amending the financial provision included in the Will
• Options to provide for a pet
  • Leave a legacy on trust for a pet
  • Leave the pet along with a cash legacy to a nominated person
  • Purpose trust for animals
  • Gift to an animal welfare charity
  • Deferring the rehoming decision to another person
  • Letter of Wishes
• What happens when nobody is able and/or willing to care for the pet?
• What happens when there is no Will?
• Examples of inheritance to pets
• Treatment of pets in other jurisdictions