Have you made a will?  If you haven’t then we recommend that you do so.  And even if you have already got a will, have you remembered to include your wishes for your dog?

For many, a dog isn’t “just a pet” #familynotproperty. So it makes sense to consider what would happen to them if you passed away. You can put protections in place in your will to help make sure your dog is cared for, loved and financially supported.  Here are some of the most effective clauses and planning tools you can include.

Name the person who will take your dog

The most important step is choosing a trusted person who will become your dog’s new owner. In your will, you can formally “gift” your dog to them.  A well-written clause will clearly identify your dog (including their microchip number if possible) and the person you’re choosing as their new carer.

Always include a backup carer

Life is unpredictable, so it’s wise to name a second person too. If your first choice can’t take your dog at the time, your will can automatically pass care to your substitute guardian instead.  This one simple addition can prevent your dog from being left in limbo.

Leave money for your dog’s care

Taking on a dog can come with real costs – food, grooming, insurance, and vet bills. A will can include a cash gift to help cover these expenses and make things easier for the person stepping in.  This can be a fixed amount or a percentage of your estate, and it helps ensure your dog’s new home is financially supported.

Add guidance with a “Letter of Wishes”

One practical challenge is that wills aren’t always easy to update regularly. That’s why many people create a separate Letter of Wishes, which your will can refer to.  This letter can include day-to-day details your dog’s new carer will really appreciate, such as:

• diet and routines
• medication
• behavioural issues
• preferred vet
• insurance information
• favourite toys and habits

It’s a simple way to protect your dog’s wellbeing, not just their housing.

Consider a trust for extra security

If you want stronger structure and accountability, you can set up a trust in your will. This allows money to be held by trustees and used specifically to support your dog’s care over time.  It could be the best option when:

• you’re leaving a larger amount of money
• you want ongoing oversight
• you’d like to separate “the person caring for the dog” from “the person managing the funds”

Plan for the immediate practicalities

One overlooked detail is what happens immediately after someone dies, especially if they live alone. Consider including a clause asking your executors to act quickly to ensure your dog is collected, cared for, and safe while everything is being sorted.

Isn’t it expensive to make a will?

At Cooper & Co the cost for us drafting you a new will or a Lasting Power of Attorney is set out here.

Dogs Trust has a scheme which offers to look after your dog in the event of you becoming seriously ill or you pass away.  It’s called the Canine Care Card and details can be found here.

Jack Sullivan
Solicitor

How we can help

If you need specialist legal advice in relation to your dog (or cat), please call us at Cooper & Co Solicitors on our landline number of 01227 20 33 20 during normal office hours.  Subject to a conflict check, we can usually offer a fixed fee telephone call for £75 + VAT for up to 20 minutes.

DISCLAIMER

This blog is provided for general information and does not constitute legal advice.  You should always seek tailored advice from a suitably qualified and experienced lawyer.  We do not sell insurance nor do we recommend any particular insurance provider or policy.

Cooper & Co Solicitors, 19 Palace Street, Canterbury, CT1 2DZ.

Tel : 01227 20 33 20
Email : admin@doglaw.co.uk 
Website : www.doglaw.co.uk

Regulated & authorised by the Solicitors Regulation Authority | SRA 258139