As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, the AAPS relies upon community support for its continued existence.

 Without bequests in the past, AAPS would be unable to provide the current level of facilities and services which benefit the thousands of animals assisted annually at the Keysborough Shelter.

No animal is turned away from the AAPS Keysborough Animal Shelter.  AAPS is committed to achieving its Charter, which is ‘to work for the aid, assistance, protection and welfare of all animals’.  It believes that every animal deserves a ‘fair go’, including the opportunity of being adopted into a caring home.

A gift in your Will to AAPS will continue your support of animals, and will help AAPS to maintain its high standards of animal care and welfare.

To make a bequest, what do I do?

AAPS strongly suggests that you consult a solicitor to ensure that your intentions are clear.  It is important that the correct wording is used, and that the correct title of ‘Australian Animal Protection Society’ is stated (rather than ‘The Keysborough Animal Shelter’, which is a colloquial term).

 Obviously, the choice is yours, but your bequest could include a specific sum of money, property, shares or possessions.  As a bequest, many people choose ‘the proportion of residue’ option.  This enables you to give your family, friends and charity the proportion or percentage of your estate that you decide. 

Subject to more detailed advice from a solicitor, AAPS suggests inclusion of the following:

‘I  BEQUEATH to the Australian Animal Protection Society of 10 Homeleigh Road, Keysborough, for the general purpose of the Society   (here, insert the sum of the bequest, or a statement defining the bequest)   free of all duties and taxes payable at my death, AND I DECLARE that the receipt of the Treasurer for the time being of the Society shall be a sufficient discharge to my Trustee(s).’

If you would like further information about the Australian Animal Protection Society, or would like to discuss any proposed bequest, please telephone the Shelter and ask for a Committee Member to contact you.

Who will care for my pets when I die ?

If you choose to make a substantial bequest to AAPS in your Will, and if you request it, AAPS will accept full responsibility for your much loved pet(s).

Cats can become residents of the Homeleigh Cat Retirement Village, whilst dogs and other pets will be placed in carefully selected and monitored foster homes.  However, AAPS will remain the official owner of the pet(s), and will be responsible for the on-going care of your pet(s).

Visitors to the Homeleigh Cat Retirement Village are very welcome.  please ring the Shelter for an appointment if you wish to inspect its facilities and observe the lifestyle of its contented feline residents.