We are often asked to advise on how best to cover the welfare of pets after the owner´s death. This can be a real issue where there are either no next-of-kin or none living in Spain.

There are a number of registered animal charities in Spain nowadays and it is worth making enquiries as to the facilities they have available.

A registered charity will not have to pay any inheritance tax in Spain on a legacy made in a Will. Non-Spanish animal charities will have a number of administrative obstacles to overcome before they can accept a gift made in Spanish Will so these are more appropriate where there is no pet to be taken care of.

A monetary gift can be made in the Will to an animal charity with a wish that the pet be placed in an appropriate home. Or, a gift could be made to a willing friend or relation in the Will with the wish that the pet be cared for by them. It is also possible, in appropriate circumstances, to express a wish to the executor / administrator  appointed under the Will that they arrange for the pet to be humanely euthanized.

If a funeral plan is in place, it is advisable to ensure that the people to be contacted on death are aware of any pets and that they know how to obtain access to the home so that the pet´s immediate needs can be met.