Future plan for pets

We want to highlight the importance of planning for the future of your pets. As animal lovers, we all want to know that our animals and their welfare will be cared for after we have gone. While SPCA is here to help wherever possible, it is important to have a plan in place for your pet to ensure that they’re looked after when the time comes.

Ideally, your pet would remain living in their home with a family member, but we understand that in many situations this is not possible, so an alternative plan needs to be put in place. Your animal is not just your pet, but a family member. You have to consider the capacity animals have, just like humans, for attachment and grief; and the adjustments your pet would need to go through when you are no longer around. We understand circumstances can change quickly and unexpectedly, so plan for their future.

• Rehome your animal with a family member or friend, ideally someone with whom they have already formed an attachment and bond with.
• It would make sense to make a list of two or three people that you trust with your pet’s welfare in case your preferred carer can no longer take on the responsibility when the time arises.
• Ensure that the people on your list are informed, that family and friends know your plans and the carer(s) are willing to take on the commitment when the time comes.
• Make sure that you have listed and keep together in one place everything that is required for your pet’s care, information such as dietary needs, medication instructions, vet clinic details, microchip number and other details such as dog sitter/walker

• Would your pet like to be around other animals within the household?
• Would your pet get on well with children?
• Is your pet active and outgoing and therefore require an active and outgoing carer?
• Does your pet need special care (dietary or medically), will the carer be able to attend to these needs?

Your decision is important to your pet’s best interests and, you need to make sure that your pet’s living situation is stable, and their company will be enjoyed by the carer too.

September – Gifts in Wills month, is a good time to start thinking about your Will, and checking it over to see if there are any chances that need to be made. If you are considering a gift and would like to speak to someone in person about leaving a gift in your Will, get in touch with our Supporter Care team 0800 888 444. We’d love to hear from you and would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

You can also email givinghearts@spca.nz, or visit https://www.spca.nz/donate/leave-a-gift-in-your-will