What happens to your pets when you die? For many people, pets are much more than animals. They are companions, family members and an important part of everyday life. Leaving guidance about their care can help make sure they continue to receive the love, attention and routine they are used to.
A Letter of Wishes provides a place to record your preferences for your pets, including who you hope will care for them and the details that make them feel safe and comfortable.
Why should you include pet care wishes?
When someone passes away, family members may need to make decisions about pets quickly.
They may not know:
- Who your preferred carer would be
- Your pet's daily routine
- Their food preferences
- Their medical needs
- Their personality and habits
- What makes them comfortable
Even people who love your pet may not know the small details that are part of their everyday life.
Writing this information down can make the transition easier for both your pet and the person caring for them.
What happens to pets when their owner dies?
Unlike people, pets cannot understand why their routine has suddenly changed.
They may experience changes such as:
- A different home environment
- New people caring for them
- Different feeding routines
- Separation from familiar people
Planning ahead can help reduce disruption.
Your Will may include legal arrangements relating to your estate, but a Letter of Wishes allows you to provide the personal details that help someone care for your pet.
What should you include in pet care wishes?
The information you include will depend on your pet, but the most useful details are usually the things only you know.
Your pet's basic information
Start with the essentials:
- Pet's name
- Type of animal
- Age
- Breed or description
- Veterinary details
- Microchip information
- Medication requirements
This provides a useful starting point for anyone who may need to step in.
Your preferred carer
Many pet owners have someone in mind who they would like to care for their pet.
You may wish to include:
- The person's name
- Your relationship with them
- Why you believe they would be a good carer
- Any conversations you have already had with them
It is worth discussing this with the person beforehand. Caring for a pet is a significant responsibility, and it is helpful to know they are comfortable taking on that role.
Your pet's daily routine
Pets often feel most comfortable when their routines stay familiar.
Consider including details such as:
- Feeding times
- Food preferences
- Walking routines
- Sleeping arrangements
- Favourite activities
- Behaviour patterns
For example, a note explaining that your dog becomes anxious around certain situations, or that your cat has a particular feeding routine, can be extremely helpful.
Medical and health information
If your pet has ongoing health needs, include useful information about their care.
This may include:
- Current medications
- Veterinary details
- Health conditions
- Allergies
- Regular treatments
- Important warning signs
Keep this information updated, especially if your pet's health needs change.
Personality and preferences
The person caring for your pet may appreciate knowing who they are beyond the basics.
You might include details such as:
- Things they enjoy
- Things they dislike
- How they behave around strangers
- Their favourite toys
- Where they like to sleep
- How they show affection
These details help someone understand your pet as an individual.
Should you leave money for your pet's care?
Some people choose to make financial arrangements to help with their pet's ongoing care.
The approach you take may depend on your personal circumstances and local laws.
If you have specific concerns about providing financially for your pet, it is worth discussing your options with an appropriate professional.
Your Letter of Wishes can still provide helpful guidance about your hopes for your pet's future care.
Should pet wishes be included in your Will or Letter of Wishes?
Many people include detailed pet care information in a Letter of Wishes because it allows more room for personal details.
A Will may address legal matters, but a Letter of Wishes can include:
- Your preferred carer
- Daily routines
- Personality notes
- Medical information
- Personal preferences
It can also be updated more easily as your pet's needs change.
Review your pet care wishes regularly
Pets change over time.
Their diet, health needs, behaviour and routines may all change.
It is a good idea to review your pet care information after:
- A new pet joins your family
- Your pet's health changes
- Your preferred carer changes
- Your pet's routine changes
- Your contact details change
Keeping information current ensures it remains useful when needed.
Helping your pet after you are gone
For many people, their pet is one of the most important relationships in their life.
While nobody can replace the bond you share with your animal, leaving clear guidance can help someone else provide the care and familiarity your pet needs.
A few notes about your pet's routine, personality and needs can make a meaningful difference during a time of change.