An elderly woman surnamed Liu from Shanghai has decided to leave her substantial fortune of 20 million yuan (US$2.8 million) solely to her beloved cats and dogs, completely excluding her adult children from her inheritance. Liu's decision stems from what she perceives as neglect and lack of care from her offspring during her time of illness.
Liu initially drafted a will several years ago, designating portions of her wealth and property to be inherited by her three children. However, her recent disillusionment with their apparent disinterest in her well-being prompted her to revise her estate plans. Liu emphasized that her pets have been her loyal companions, providing the care and support that her children failed to deliver.
Pet Guardianship: Veterinary Clinic Takes Charge
In a unique twist to traditional inheritance, Liu has appointed a local veterinary clinic as the administrator of her substantial inheritance. The clinic is tasked with overseeing the well-being and care of her cherished cats and dogs, ensuring that they are provided for even after Liu's passing. However, direct financial bequests to pets are not legally permissible in China.
Chen Kai, an official from China's Will Registration Centre headquarters in Beijing, explained that while leaving money directly to pets is not allowed, there are legal alternatives to address the issue. Liu's current will, entrusting a veterinary clinic with her pets' care, is one such solution. Chen suggested that appointing a trusted person to supervise the veterinary clinic could ensure the proper execution of Liu's wishes.
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An official from the eastern China branch of the China Will Registration Centre revealed that they had cautioned Liu about the potential risks of placing her entire fortune under the control of a pet clinic. The official also emphasized that Liu could modify her will if her children were to change their attitudes toward her in the future.
Online Reactions: A Public Discourse on Family and Inheritance
Liu's story has ignited a lively online discussion about family dynamics and inheritance. One observer expressed empathy, noting, "How disappointed and heartbroken she must have been to make the decision not to leave anything to her children." Another individual commended Liu's choice, stating, "Well done. If my daughter treats me poorly in the future, I will also leave my house to others."
In a similar case from December last year, a Shanghai court validated the will of a man who bequeathed his assets to a kind fruit stall owner instead of his relatives, highlighting the evolving landscape of inheritance laws in China.
