Question

I constantly worry about whether I have done everything correctly for my two pets after my passing.  I have no family in the country, and I would like guidance on how to make sure my pets are cared for.

What should I consider, and what is the easiest way to have a lump sum set aside for each of the two pets for their care and vet costs until their passing?

Answer

Your anxiety is completely understandable.  Pets play an important role in our lives and we want to ensure that they are properly cared for should we pass away.

The first important point is that, in South African law, pets cannot inherit directly. You cannot leave money to your dog or cat in the same way that you leave money to a person. This means the planning has to be built around people, instructions and money.

Here are the 6 important decisions that you need to make

1. Who will care for the pets

This person needs to be chosen carefully. They must be willing, capable and suitable.

Ideally, you should identify a primary caregiver and a backup caregiver. If there is no suitable individual, then you can speak to animal welfare organisations, breed-specific rescue groups or reputable sanctuaries. Some organisations may be willing to assist, but they should be approached in advance. Do not simply name an organisation in your will without confirming that they are prepared and able to help.

2. Update your will

Your will should specify who is to receive the pets and whether a cash amount is to be paid to that person for their care. The wording must be clear. For example, you may leave each pet to a named person, together with a fixed amount to be used for food, vet costs, grooming, medication, insurance and general care.

The risk with a simple bequest is that once the money is paid to the caregiver, it may be difficult to control how it is used. In most cases this works if you trust the person.

If the amount is large, or if you are worried about oversight, then a more formal structure may be needed.  This is where a trust can be considered.

A testamentary trust is a trust created in your will. You could leave a sum of money to a trust, with instructions that it must be used for the care of your pets. A trustee would then manage the funds and pay the caregiver or service providers as needed.  This is more formal and comes with administration and costs.

3. Calculate the amount needed

Start with the current annual cost of each pet. Include food, treats, vet check-ups, vaccinations, chronic medication, grooming, pet insurance, boarding, bedding and emergency vet bills. Then multiply this by their likely remaining lifespan and add a buffer.

For example, if a pet costs R2,500 a month to care for, that is R30,000 a year. If the pet may live another six years, the base cost is R180,000. You may then add an emergency medical buffer. Vet costs can escalate quickly, especially in later life.

You do not need mathematical perfection. You need a sensible estimate that gives the caregiver enough money to do the job properly.

4. Prepare a pet care letter

This is separate from your will. A will deals with the legal transfer of assets. A care letter deals with the day-to-day practicalities.  It should include each pet’s name, age, microchip number, vet details, medical history, medication, food preferences, routine and any special instructions.

5. Plan for delays when your estate is administered

Estate administration takes time. Your pets will need food, shelter and care immediately, not months later when the estate is finalised. This is often the missing piece in planning.

Make sure your executor, neighbour, friend or caregiver knows where the pets are, how to access the house, who the vet is, and what must happen in the first few days. You may even want a small emergency fund or arrangement with the caregiver so that there is no delay.

6. Speak to the right professionals.

Your financial planner can help calculate the amount to set aside and make sure there is liquidity in the estate. Your attorney must draft the will correctly. If a trust is needed, the attorney can advise on the structure and wording.

This is not overthinking. It is responsible planning.  The goal is simple: when you are no longer there, your pets should move from your care into the care of someone you trust, with enough money and instruction to keep them safe, loved and properly looked after.