Most Canadians know they should have a will, yet many delay creating one. Writing a will forces difficult decisions about family, inheritance and legacy—topics people often avoid. In fact, research shows that 78% of Canadians who begin an estate plan don’t complete it. Still, mortality is unavoidable, and having a clear plan brings peace of mind.
One surprising motivator to finish an estate plan is pets. The companionship of a dog’s wagging tail or a cat’s purr prompts many owners to take action. Data from online estate planning platform Willful finds that pet owners complete their estate plans at nearly three times the rate of non-pet owners. The driving factor is straightforward: owners want to be sure their pets will be cared for when they are gone.
If you’ve been postponing your will, consider Mittens or Scout and use April 11, National Pet Day, as a deadline to get it done.
Some ruff numbers
Willful’s analysis, based on more than 44,000 completed wills from Canadians, reveals consistent trends across the country. About a third of Canadians (36%) who include pets in their estate planning set aside money for their pets’ guardians, and these amounts are often substantial.
The cost of care
Unlike distributions to people, funds left for pets are usually dedicated to the animal’s ongoing care—food, medical treatment, grooming, toys and other needs. Determining the right amount depends on the animal’s species, age, number of pets, any special medical or care requirements, and local costs.
Dogs represent 57% of pets named in wills, followed by cats at 38%. Dogs and cats make up most of the animals included, but owners also provide for birds, horses and other companions.
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Across the sample, the average pet trust is $11,121 per animal, with notable differences by species. Horse inheritances average $21,876—a practical sum to cover boarding, feed and veterinary care. Bird owners leave an average of $12,133, which reflects the specialized care some birds require. Dog trusts average $11,705, close to the overall mean. (Willful’s data does not publish a specific average for cats in the summary.)
Regional differences also appear in the data. Owners in Calgary set aside an average of $4,714, and in Toronto the average is $4,892, while Vancouver averages $6,070—differences that likely reflect variations in local living and care costs.
Why writing your pet into the will makes purr-fect sense
Jokes about “crazy cat ladies” aside, there are clear, practical reasons to provide for pets in your will.
Most Canadians who plan for their pets name a family member as guardian—children and close relatives are commonly chosen. While living with a pet has many emotional and health benefits, pet ownership carries ongoing financial responsibilities. Setting aside funds relieves the burden on the person who takes over care and reduces stress during a difficult transition.
It’s important to remember that under the law animals are considered property, not legal persons. Without clear instructions, a pet could be treated like any other asset, with potential for sale or other unintended outcomes. Expressly naming a guardian and allocating funds helps ensure your companion’s welfare.
Five steps for Fido’s future
Providing for your pet after your death is straightforward. These five steps will help make sure your pet’s needs are covered and your wishes are clear.
1. Make a legally valid will. Your will should be in writing (online tools can help prepare the document), printed or stored as a physical record, witnessed by two adults and signed by the witnesses and the testator according to provincial requirements.
2. Choose a pet guardian. Name a dependable person who can take responsibility for your pet. Consider someone with a stable lifestyle and the resources to care for your animal—friends, family members or trusted caregivers are common choices.
3. Set aside funds. Provide a realistic cash amount to cover the pet’s lifetime care so that accepting guardianship won’t impose a financial burden. Include some extra for unexpected expenses and comforts.
4. Document care instructions. Make life easier for the guardian by leaving detailed care notes: dietary needs, medications, vet contact details, favourite activities, and daily routines. Clear instructions reduce stress and help the guardian maintain the pet’s quality of life.
5. Appoint an executor. An executor ensures the terms of your will are carried out. This person will manage the transfer of funds and the pet’s placement with the appointed guardian.
Not everyone has a pet, but everyone should have a will. Planning ahead protects the people and animals you love. For many pet owners, the desire to secure their companion’s future is the motivation they needed to complete their estate planning—and that peace of mind is worth the effort.
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