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Coronavirus - Taking care of your pets if you pass away
Posted March 2020
Several people have been in touch with us regarding what they can do to look after their pets if they pass away as a result of the Coronavirus. We wanted to provide some information about what you can do to make sure your pet is properly looked after.
Firstly you should discuss this with your family members or friends and try to arrange a plan on what would happen to your pet in the result of your death. Make sure to discuss things like medication, food and exercise as well as information about what your pet likes as it will be a distressing time for them as well. It can help to write this information down and keep it in an obvious and visible place. You can use this Emergency Pet Care card which we recommend you place in a visable place like on your fridge.
If you live alone or your family are unable to help then we would recommend you include provision in your will. We would recommend you include the suggested wording in your Will as this means that any arrangements in relation to your pet will formally recognise the RSPCA:
“I give [any pet animal I own at my death] [define the animal] [and _____ pounds] [and _______ percent / the whole of my residuary estate] to the RSPCA York, Harrogate and District Branch of Landing Lane, York, YO264RH (registered charity no 232222) for its general purposes and I direct that once [any pet animal I own at my death][defined animal] is delivered to the RSPCA it shall take over full responsibility for the animal and seek to place it in a suitable home if possible. The receipt of the honorary treasurer or other appropriate officer of the RSPCA for the time being shall be a good discharge of my Executors.”
You don't have to use this wording as long as your wishes are clearly stated in your Will and you have included the charity name and registered charity number, your Executor should have all the information they need, but it’s always a good idea to check with your legal adviser.
Finally the York Animal Home and Age UK York run a partnership project called Keep Your Pet, which is designed to help look after your pets should you be temporarily unable to do so. Keep Your Pet is continuing to support the health and welfare of vulnerable people in York through this crisis All enquiries for a new service or urgent requirement should be made to Keep Your Pet on 01904 866070
