What Happens to Pets When Owners Pass Away Without a Plan?

It’s something none of us want to imagine, but it’s one of the most important things every pet owner should think about:

What would happen to your pet if you passed away unexpectedly?

We plan so carefully for our loved ones - our families, our homes, even our finances. But our pets, who rely on us for absolutely everything, are often left out of those plans.

Not because we don’t care, but because it’s hard to think about a world where we’re not there to care for them.

The truth is, without a plan, things can quickly become complicated.

🐕 What Really Happens Without a Plan

When a pet owner dies without making arrangements, several things can happen, and not all of them are ideal.

Family or friends step in, but not always right away.

Sometimes, loved ones will take over care informally. But if there’s confusion, disagreement, or no clear instructions, it can lead to delays, and stress for everyone involved, especially your pet.

Pets may be taken to shelters temporarily

If there’s no immediate family or named contact, pets can be placed in local shelters or by animal welfare services. These organisations do their best, but it’s not the same as being with someone familiar.

Legal confusion can slow everything down

While you can mention pets in your will, they can’t directly inherit anything — because, in law, they’re still classed as property. Without clear instructions about who should care for them and how, decisions can take time and cause confusion. In the meantime, your pet’s care might be left in limbo.

At PetPact, we believe pets are so much more than property — they’re family. That’s why we’re actively championing change with the government to recognise pets’ unique place in our lives and ensure their welfare is properly protected in law.

🐾 Why It’s So Important to Have a Plan

Having a PetPact in place means there’s no uncertainty about what happens next.

It gives your loved ones the clarity they need, and your pet the comfort they deserve.

When you create a PetPact:

You name a guardian, someone you trust to take care of your pet.

You outline your pet’s routine, needs, and preferences, so they’re cared for just as you would.

You give your family and friends a clear, simple document to follow, removing confusion or conflict.

It’s a small step that prevents so much stress later on.

🐕🦺 Real-World Peace of Mind

We’ve heard stories of dogs and cats being passed between family members because no one knew what the owner wanted. Not out of neglect, but because everyone assumed someone else was handling it.

Having your wishes written down ensures that never happens. Your pet’s care isn’t left to chance, it’s already decided, with love and thought behind it.

That’s what PetPact is all about: protecting your pet when you no longer can.

💚 It’s Not Morbid But It’s Responsible

Planning ahead doesn’t mean expecting the worst.

It means caring deeply enough to make sure your pet’s future is secure, no matter what happens.

If you’ve ever looked at your pet and thought, “What would I do without you?”, this is simply your way of making sure they’ll never have to wonder the same thing.

🐾 Create Your PetPact in a few Minutes

It only takes a few minutes to make a lifetime of difference.

Your PetPact sets out exactly who will care for your pet, how, and when, bringing peace of mind to everyone involved.