14 April 2025
Pets Are Family — But the Law Sees Them Differently
Recent research by Censuswide, on behalf of The Association of Lifetime Lawyers, reveals a surprising gap in awareness:
👉 59% of UK adults over 30 don’t know that pets are legally considered assets — not dependents or family members.
👉 Only 26% have made any formal provisions for their pets in their will.
You might remember stories like Karl Lagerfeld leaving his fortune to his cat — but under UK law, pets can’t inherit money or property directly. Instead, pet owners must name someone they trust to care for their animal, and ideally, set aside funds to help with their pet’s ongoing needs.
Why This Matters
Pets are often seen as part of the family, but many people assume their loved ones will just ‘figure it out’ if something happens. Unfortunately, without legal arrangements, your pet’s future could be uncertain — even if someone has verbally agreed to take them.
That’s why including your pet in your will is so important. It gives clarity, ensures your wishes are followed, and gives your pet the best chance of continuing to live a happy, healthy life.
What Should You Include in Your Will for Your Pet?
When creating or updating your will, consider the following:
Take the First Step
Don’t leave your pet’s future to chance. The Association of Lifetime Lawyers — a group of highly qualified legal professionals — recommends speaking to a solicitor who can help you create a will that protects everyone you care about.
If you would like advice on making a Will please contact our expert Wills, Trust and Probate solicitors based at our Bournemouth and Christchurch offices.
🔗 Learn more about wills and find helpful resources here: Wills | Lifetime Lawyers | Lifetime Lawyers
