August 4, 2025
Graham Hinitt DipPFS Matrix Estate Planning Limited
It’s estimated that over 17 million UK households have at least one pet. From loyal dogs to curious cats and even exotic companions, our animals are part of the family. But what happens to them if you lose the capacity to care for them—or pass away?
At Matrix Estate Planning Limited, we understand that thinking about these scenarios isn’t easy. However, making provisions for your pets within your Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) can ensure they’re protected, loved, and well cared for—no matter what the future holds.
An LPA is a legal document that allows you to appoint trusted individuals (your “attorneys”) to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. There are two types:
• Health and Welfare LPA – covers decisions about your personal wellbeing, including care and daily routines.
• Property and Financial Affairs LPA – covers financial matters such as paying bills, managing property, and handling expenses.
Both types can include specific instructions and preferences—including how your pets should be cared for.
Without clear instructions, your pet’s future may be left to chance. Sadly, we’ve seen cases where pets were sent to shelters—or worse—because no formal arrangements were made. Including pet care in your LPA ensures:
• Your wishes are respected.
• Your pet avoids unnecessary distress or rehoming.
• Financial provision is made for ongoing care.
You can nominate a specific individual to care for your pet. Before doing so:
• Discuss your intentions with them.
• Confirm they’re willing and able to take on the responsibility.
• Consider their lifestyle, location, and relationship with your pet.
If no suitable person is available, you can nominate a reputable animal charity or shelter to rehome your pet with compassion.
Your LPA can include instructions for your attorneys to:
• Continue paying for food, grooming, and vet bills from your funds.
• Allocate a monthly allowance for pet care.
• Cover transport costs if your pet needs to be relocated.
This ensures your pet’s needs are met without burdening the caregiver financially.
If you wish for your pet to remain with you after losing capacity, your LPA can reflect that. Many clients choose this option because:
• Pets offer emotional comfort and reduce feelings of isolation.
• They can help slow cognitive decline, especially in dementia patients.
• Daily interaction with animals can improve mental health and wellbeing.
You may also request that someone visits daily to feed and exercise your pet, ensuring both you and your companion maintain a familiar routine.
If your pet is rehomed, you can still request:
• Regular visits from the caregiver with your pet.
• Updates on your pet’s wellbeing.
• That your pet be placed with a specific shelter or rescue organisation known for ethical rehoming practices.
These preferences can be written into your LPA as guidance or legally binding instructions, depending on your wishes.
• Your attorneys may make a “best interests” decision that doesn’t align with your wishes.
• Pets may be sent to shelters or euthanised if no caregiver is available.
• Financial support for pet care may be overlooked.
This can cause emotional distress for both you and your loved ones. Taking action now avoids these outcomes.
1. Choose your attorneys – people you trust to act in your best interests.
2. Discuss your pet care wishes – with potential caregivers and attorneys.
3. Draft clear instructions – including who should care for your pet, financial support, and any preferences.
4. Include guidance in your LPA – either as legally binding instructions or advisory notes.
5. Review and update regularly – especially if your pet’s needs or your circumstances change.
At Matrix Estate Planning Limited, we can help you draft a robust, STEP-compliant LPA that reflects your wishes and protects your pets.
We’ve seen the heartbreak that can occur when pet care is overlooked. Let us help you take proactive steps to ensure your beloved animals are safe, loved, and cared for—whatever life brings.
📍 Based in South Anston, Sheffield, we offer remote consultations via Zoom or Teams and serve clients across the UK.
📞 Call us today or visit our website to book a free initial consultation.
