Despite the ongoing developments in technology, pets still remain very popular Christmas presents. With this in mind, Laura Richardson now considers the importance of ensuring that your pets are taken proper care of throughout its life – even if you are no longer around to do so yourself . . .

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Across Essex, many people are preparing to surprise their loved ones with the gift of a pet this Christmas, with the most popular Christmas pet being a puppy! Deciding to buy a dog, or any pet for that matter, comes with the responsibility and commitment to care for that pet for the duration of its life. However, what happens when your pet outlives you? A pet is a cherished member of many families across Essex, and therefore it is important to remember to make provisions for your pet when you are making your end of life plans.

One of the ways in which you can ensure that your pet will be well cared for after you die, is by including provision for your pet within your Will. UK law considers pets to fall under the category of “Personal Chattels” and therefore you cannot leave money to your pet directly. What you are able to do, however, is bequeath your pet to a family member or friend, along with a cash gift which you have calculated as sufficient to cover the financial cost of caring for your pet after you die. It can be difficult to calculate how much money will be needed to care for your pet. The amount should include money for feed, basic care and medical needs such as annual vet check-up bills. However, you could also include money for grooming, further vet bills, pet insurance, or a walking service should this be necessary for your chosen carer. It is important to note that you can make this cash gift conditional upon your chosen carer accepting responsibility for the care of your pet. You may also find it reassuring to provide your chosen carer with a letter of wishes, detailing the particular needs of your pet.

If you do not have anyone who is able to care for your pet after you die, there are several charities who are able to arrange for your pet to be cared for, or rehomed with a suitable family. The main charities that offer this service are the RSPCA, The Cinnamon Trust and The Dogs Trust. If you wish for your pet’s care to be arranged by one of these charities after your death, you must specify this within your Will. You may also wish to bequeath a cash gift upon your chosen charity as a token of your thanks, or in recognition of the work that they do.

If you have a pet, or are considering buying a pet for your family this Christmas and would like to discuss providing for the lifetime care of your pet in your Will, call Andrew Douglas Wills and Legal Services today to arrange a free initial consultation via www.andredouglaswills.co.uk to discuss your needs throughout the surrounding areas of Essex. ————————————————————————————————————————————————————

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