Pets grieve terribly, and that’s why it’s important to make sure they’re looked after should anything ever happen to you.
Johannesburg, South Africa (11 September 2025) – We don’t like to think about it, but one day our pets may outlive us. For the Johannesburg SPCA, this is exactly why it’s so important to make sure your will doesn’t only account for your family and finances, but also for the animals who have been a part of your story.
When an owner passes away, pets are left confused. They don’t understand why their person never comes home. They grieve deeply.
“In many cases the animals become depressed, totally withdrawn and in severe cases – they die of a broken heart. The movie Hachikō is 100% accurate as to how a death can effect a pet,” the SPCA explains.
Hachikō is a Japanese film based on the true story of a loyal Akita dog who waited at a train station every day for his owner, even after his human had passed away.
So how do you protect your pets after you’re gone? According to the SPCA, the first step is to include them in your estate planning. South Africa’s freedom of testation allows you to make provisions for your pets in your will, as long as the arrangements are reasonable and lawful. This could mean appointing someone you trust as a guardian or even creating a trust to manage their care.
“It’s advisable to appoint a guardian for your pet in your will,” says the SPCA.
This doesn’t just cover the unexpected; it also means your pet is safe if you become incapacitated. The important part is to have the conversation beforehand. Choose someone who loves animals, is responsible, and most importantly, is willing to take on the role.
Finances are another important consideration. Pets can’t inherit money directly since they’re classified as property, but you can leave funds with their guardian to cover food, medical care, and everyday costs. It depends on their financial situation and what your pet needs.
“It’s advisable to provide funds, if possible, to ensure that the pet’s needs are met, and the caregiver is fairly compensated for their services,” the SPCA notes.
For even more structure, a pet trust is another option to look at. This lets you outline exactly how your animals should be cared for, but it does come with administrative fees and tax implications.
The point isn’t how complicated the arrangement is. It’s that you make one at all. By putting plans in place, you’re making sure that your pets won’t face the trauma of being abandoned or surrendered to a shelter.
As the SPCA reminds us: “Please make sure that your animals are provided for when you are no longer here.”
It’s one of the greatest final acts of love we can give them.
by 