Snubbed Shanghai mom leaves $2.8 million inheritance to veterinary clinic, not kids

Sorting out one's affairs during our lifetime is paramount, with many facing a significant dilemma over who should inherit their wealth. Drafting a will is the ideal solution for those blessed with loving children. However, circumstances can vary, with children not always deserving of their inheritance. This was the situation for a resident of Shanghai, whose estate is valued at a staggering $2.8 million!

The woman, residing in China, held a substantial estate, initially bequeathed to her children. However, as years went by and she aged, she began questioning whether this was a wise decision, given her children had seemingly forgotten about her. They neither visited their mother nor showed her any attention - a stark contrast to the affectionate behavior of her pets.

The only companionship in her life came from her cherished pets, with whom she felt a strong bond. Hence, she decided to revise her will. Instead of gifting her children the $2.8 million, she left it to a local veterinary clinic. As Chinese inheritance law doesn't permit assets to be solely bequeathed to pets, she had to designate a trusted person to ensure the proper use of the legacy. According to her will, her children will receive nothing, which understandably shocked many.

The desire of the Shanghai residents is not unique. Many wealthy and famous people have already included their beloved pets in their wills. A prime example is Alexander McQueen, who, following his demise in 2010, left his dogs' inheritance of approximately $20 million. Similarly, American Leona Helmsley left about $10 million for her Maltese in a trust fund.