It's not something we usually think of when getting a pet, but it's a good question: What will happen to our pets if we die?
Dog and cat owners can reasonably expect to outlive their companions, but for these animals, you might want to make a will.
Tortoise and turtle
Some species of tortoise, especially the giant sizes, can live for more than a century. The Hermann's Tortoise, however, grows only to about seven inches and around 8 pounds and can live at least 30 years, but some sources claim they could live 90 years or more. The American Box Turtle has a typical life expectancy of 35 years. Some are said to live much longer.
Parrots, macaws, cockatoos
The chatty African grey parrot can live from 30 to 50 years, or even 60 years in some cases. According to Newsweek, the oldest parrot in captivity was called Tarbu. He squawked his last word at age 55: Cheerio! The hyacinth macaw can live up to 60 years in captivity.
The charming varieties of cockatoos can live from 40 to 80 years in captivity, offering a wide array of behaviors and sounds. They require somewhat complicated care and socializing.
Snakes
The ball python can live for 30 years. The oldest was 62 in 2020 when she laid eggs, evidently without the help of a male partner.
Miniature dogs
While big dogs are notoriously short-lived at less than 10 years for some breeds, miniature dogs like the chihuahua and toy poodle can live up to 20 years.
