Pets left bereft in wills and probate

Pet owners are failing to set provisions for pets when writing their wills.

Although research shows over 1.5 million people have provided for their pets in their will, as few as one in ten pet owners have made adequate provisions for them.

With many families in the UK having pets, this can turn into a substantial problem and puts pressure on local animal sanctuaries.

Individuals may often have informal arrangements with friends or neighbours to care for their pets in the event of death, but in the current economic times these arrangements often do not come to light.

Consequently it is vital for individuals when making their wills to ensure that all beneficiaries are adequately provided for, to avoid loved ones being left bereft.

Some animal shelters run schemes to re-home pets once their owners have passed on.

The RSPCA's home for life campaign is vital in ensuring animals are not left in crisis once an owner dies.

Becky King, manager at the Bryn y Maen centre in Conwy, told BBC News: "By putting it in their wills that they want the RSPCA to look after their pets, it gives an assurance to the owners that their loved animal will be cared for."

Published by Kevin Round