In a remarkable testament to the enduring bonds between humans and their furry companions, an elderly woman from Shanghai has left the entirety of her $2.8 million fortune to her cherished cats and dogs. Identified only by her surname, Liu, this woman’s heartfelt decision stems from the painful reality of her children’s apparent neglect during her twilight years.
Ms. Liu, who had initially earmarked her wealth for her three offspring, had a change of heart when she felt the solitude of old age weighing heavily upon her. According to a report by The South China Morning Post, citing Zonglan News, her children seldom visited her, showed little care, and maintained infrequent contact with her.
In a gesture of unwavering devotion to her pets, Ms. Liu’s revised will stipulates that her entire estate must be dedicated to the well-being of her beloved animal companions and their descendants. To ensure this commitment, she has entrusted a local veterinary clinic with the solemn responsibility of administering her generous inheritance, ensuring the continued care and comfort of her furry family.
This touching story, however, raises a legal conundrum. Chinese law prohibits bequeathing one’s entire estate directly to pets. Chen Kai, an official from the Will Registration Centre headquarters in Beijing, acknowledged this limitation but also suggested a viable alternative. He explained, “Liu’s current will is one way, and we would have advised her to appoint a person she trusts to supervise the vet clinic to ensure the pets are properly cared for.”
Another official from the agency, while empathizing with Ms. Liu’s predicament, highlighted the potential risks of placing all her assets in the hands of a veterinary clinic. Nevertheless, they offered a glimmer of hope, stating, “We told Auntie Liu that if her children change their attitude towards her, she could always alter her will again.”
In a nation where family values traditionally hold great importance, Ms. Liu’s decision has sparked a spirited online debate in China. One user expressed sympathy, writing, “How disappointed and heartbroken she must have been to make the decision not to leave anything to her children.”
While it may be unusual, this isn’t the first instance of pets benefiting from their owners’ generosity. In 2020, a wealthy businessman in Tennessee bequeathed a staggering $5 million to his loyal eight-year-old border collie, Lulu. Likewise, the late British fashion designer Alexander McQueen left a considerable sum of £50,000 ($97,000) from his £16 million ($31 million) estate to his cherished dogs, Minter, Juice, and Callum.
Ms. Liu’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the deep emotional connections that can exist between humans and their animal companions. Her selfless act of love and the ensuing conversations it has sparked shine a light on the intricate interplay of family dynamics, responsibility, and devotion. In a world filled with heartwarming stories, Ms. Liu’s legacy to her pets is one that will be remembered for years to come.
