The best way to care for your pets in the event that you pass on would be to provide for them in your will. According to South African law your pets are viewed as property, therefore you will not be able to leave them any assets. Instead, you can identify someone in your will to take care of your pets and provide the individual with funding to enable the care. The new owner won’t have any legal obligation to care for your pet or use the money provided on your pet, but provided you choose someone you trust, this shouldn’t be a problem.
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What happens to your pets when you die
Remember Blue • January 10, 2021
Read Time: 5 min
For many of us, our pets form part of our family. There is an increasing trend of young adults having pets instead of children and the pet economy is booming. In 2018, more than $72 billion was spent on pet care in the USA and in South Africa we spend between R300 and R600 million every year on pet food alone. A lot of our resources are spent on our pets, however we have limited control over the life they will lead once we are gone.
What may however be a concern is if the new owner is not aware of your pet's specific medical needs; preferences when it comes to food, play, vets and kennels; as well as any quirks that are unique to your pets. You should make sure that you pass on this information to ensure the best transition for your pet.
Without a plan for your pets in the event of your passing on, they could be left homeless and put up for adoption. The rates for adoption of older pets tend to be significantly lower than that of younger pets. This means that they may need to spend an extended period of time, or even life, in an animal shelter. If not adopted they may potentially even be euthanised.
None of us would want our pets to be abandoned and potentially spend their last days in an animal shelter. We all want the best for the furry family members. So remember to plan for them when you are no longer around so that they can be adopted into a loving home.
With Remember Blue you can nominate someone to take care of your pets if you pass on and provide them with any specific instructions to ensure your pets well being. These wishes will be shared after you pass on but we recommend you speak to the individual/s to confirm their commitment to your pets.