Planning for Your Furry Family: What to Know About Pet Care in Your Will

For many Canadians, pets aren’t just animals – they’re beloved family members. If you’re concerned about who will care for your furry, feathered, or scaled companions after you’re gone, you’re not alone. Including pet care provisions in your will ensures your beloved animals receive the love and care they deserve throughout their lives.

What You Can and Can’t Do Legally

In Canada, pets are legally considered personal property, which means you can’t leave money or assets directly to them. However, you can make specific arrangements for their care and set aside funds to support that care.

The most straightforward approach is to name a specific person as the recipient of your pets, along with a designated amount of money to cover their ongoing expenses. This creates a moral obligation for the caregiver to use those funds for your pet’s benefit, though it’s not legally enforceable.

Choosing the Right Caregiver

Consider Their Lifestyle: Choose someone whose living situation, schedule, and lifestyle can accommodate your pets. A person who travels frequently or lives in a small apartment might not be suitable for a large dog that needs lots of exercise.

Gauge Their Genuine Interest: Pick someone who has shown genuine affection for your pets and understands their personalities, habits, and needs. The best caregiver is someone who already has a relationship with your animals.

Financial Capacity: While you can leave money for pet care, consider whether your chosen caregiver has the immediate financial means to handle emergency veterinary bills or ongoing expenses before your estate is settled.

Have Backup Options: Always name alternative caregivers in case your first choice becomes unable or unwilling to take on the responsibility.

How Much Money Should You Leave?

Consider your pet’s age, health, breed, and expected lifespan when determining an appropriate amount. Factor in:

• Regular veterinary care and vaccinations
• Quality food and supplies
• Grooming expenses
• Potential emergency medical costs
• Daily care expenses

A healthy young cat might need support for 15+ years, while an elderly dog might only need a few years of care. Be realistic about costs – veterinary expenses have increased significantly in recent years.

Making It Official

Document Everything: Include detailed care instructions about your pet’s routines, medical needs, favorite foods, and behavioral quirks. This information helps caregivers provide continuity in your pet’s care.

Have the Conversation: Discuss your plans with your chosen caregivers beforehand. Make sure they’re willing and able to take on this responsibility. Never surprise someone with a pet they didn’t expect.

Keep Information Current: Update your will if your pets’ needs change significantly or if your chosen caregivers’ circumstances change.

Alternative Options

If you don’t have suitable friends or family members, research local animal rescue organizations or pet sanctuaries that might accept your animals along with funding for their care. Some organizations specialize in caring for pets whose owners have passed away.

Don’t Leave It to Chance

Without proper planning, your pets could end up in shelters or with people who aren’t prepared to care for them properly. Taking time now to make these arrangements ensures your faithful companions will be loved and cared for throughout their lives.

Ready to include your pets in your will planning? Contact TLR Law at (204) 925-1900 or reach out online – we’ll help you create a plan that protects every member of your family, including the furry ones.