What happens to the dog?

We’ve got to get a bit morbid for a minute. What happens with your pets when you die, or suddenly become incapacitated?

It feels morbid to talk about our own mortality, but it is oh so important. It’s often hard to face, and we talk in euphemisms or inferences that can make our wishes hard to interpret, which adds complexity to an already likely difficult time.

Especially if you are alone, widowed, estranged from family, whatever, but everyone should. Talk to those you trust about what you want to happen. Be clear. Have a full preference list just in case. Make sure your emergency contact, a next of kin, a power of attorney, lawyer know your wishes. Tell the neighbour. Put it in writing. Make a Will. Have a backup. Make sure people are willing and able to execute your wishes.

Also, and this is an angle I hadn’t thought about before, check your pet’s microchip details. If your pet came from a breeder or rescue, their details may be in the Secondary Contact section. This is a fabulous idea if they are indeed your preference for taking over your pet’s care, as under the Companion Animals Act they could be considered as an “owner” and make a legal claim for your pet. During my time working in a large Sydney pound I was aware of some entities claiming impounded animals and denying access to the Primary Owner, claiming some higher moral ground (having a pet impounded does not make you a bad owner by the way, but I digress). The NSW Pet Registry has moved under Service NSW now I believe, and while it can be a palaver to deal with them (nothing personal Service NSW peeps), I strongly recommend you check and update where necessary, all your pets’ details.

Meanwhile, I’m hoping my friend makes a complete and miraculous recovery.

Update 17th July (original blog posted 7th July 2025): My friend passed away last week. We didn’t know each other long, but sometimes you don’t need to, there’s just connection. Vale Alison. I’m not sure Tippy ended up where you wanted her to, but she is safe and that is the main thing.