Our dogs are more than pets — they’re family. They greet us at the door, keep our secrets, and snuggle in for a cuddle when life gets tough. But have you ever stopped to think about what would happen to your beloved four-legged friend if something unexpected happened to you?

While it’s a difficult topic, making sure your dog is provided for in your Will is one of the most important things you can do as a responsible pet owner. In Australia, pets are legally considered property, which means they can’t inherit assets directly — but you can make arrangements to ensure their continued care.

As the saying goes, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” It’s only fair we return the favour by planning for their future.

Things to Consider When Including Your Dog in Your Will

Before you make changes to your Will or speak with your solicitor, it’s worth sitting down and considering a few important details about your pet’s future care:

• Who would be the right person to care for them?
• Would that person be willing and able to take on the responsibility? (short term and/or long term)
• What financial support might they need to care for your dog?
• Does your dog have specific health issues, routines or preferences that need to be passed on?
• Would you like your pet to stay together with other animals you own, if applicable?

Having these answers ready can make the legal process smoother and ensure your dog’s best interests are front and centre.

Choosing a Pet Guardian

Picking the right person to care for your dog is perhaps the most important decision you’ll make. Ideally, your chosen guardian should:

• Be a genuine dog lover
• Have a lifestyle suitable for pet care
• Be financially stable (if not, you can provide for this)
• Understand your dog’s personality and quirks

It’s essential to have an open, honest conversation with your potential pet guardian before naming them in your Will. Confirm they’re happy to take on the role and understand what it involves. You might even want to nominate a backup guardian, just in case.

A good rule of paw: never surprise someone with a pet in a Will.

Financially Providing for Your Dog’s Care

While your chosen pet guardian might be happy to take your dog in, caring for a pet comes with ongoing costs — from food and grooming to vet bills and pet insurance.

In Australia, you can leave a monetary gift (also known as a bequest) to your chosen guardian, with a request that it be used for your pet’s care. Alternatively, you could set up a pet trust, though these can be more complex and may require legal advice.

Consider:

• How much money your dog would realistically need for food, health care, grooming, and other expenses.
• Whether your pet has ongoing medical costs or special needs.
• Leaving a lump sum to cover these expenses, with instructions on its intended use.

“Dogs do speak, but only to those who know how to listen.” — make sure the person caring for them can hear them loud and clear.

A Loving Legacy

Taking the time to make proper arrangements for your dog in your Will is one of the greatest acts of love you can give. It brings peace of mind to you and security to your loyal companion.

If you haven’t already, chat with your solicitor about updating your Will. It’s a small task now that can make a world of difference later — because as every dog owner knows, “Life is short, but your dog’s love is forever.”