Celebrity Pets Wealthier Than You – The Rich Pets of the Stars
In the world of the rich and famous, even their pets live a life of luxury that most of us can only dream of. From trust funds to mansions, these pampered animals are truly living the high life. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most famous and wealthy pets of the stars.
Leona Helmsley’s Dog Trouble
In 2007, hotelier Leona Helmsley made headlines when she left her beloved Maltese terrier, Trouble, a staggering $12 million in her will. This generous inheritance caused quite a stir, with Trouble receiving numerous death and kidnapping threats as a result. Eventually, a judge decided to reduce the dog’s inheritance to $2 million, but the incident shed light on the growing trend of pet inheritances among the wealthy.
According to Christopher Berry, managing attorney for the Animal Legal Defense Fund, the legal system is only now beginning to recognize the legal interests of animals. Pet trusts have become a popular way for pet owners to ensure that their furry companions are taken care of after their passing. These trusts allow owners to set aside funds specifically for the care of their pets, ensuring that they continue to live comfortably even after their owner’s death.
Choupette, Karl Lagerfeld’s Stylish Cat
Karl Lagerfeld’s cat, Choupette, is perhaps one of the most iconic and stylish pets in the world. The blue-cream Birman cat became a fashion icon in her own right, with both Doja Cat and Jared Leto paying homage to her at the 2023 Met Gala. Lagerfeld made it clear that he would leave part of his fortune to Choupette, referring to her as a “little heiress.” Choupette’s life as a kitty-influencer had already made her a millionaire, further solidifying her status as a wealthy pet.
Leslie Ann Mandel’s Cockatiels
In a unique case of pet inheritance, Manhattan entrepreneur Leslie Ann Mandel left $100,000 to her 32 cockatiels after her death in 2015. Mandel requested that her birds continue to reside in her Hamptons home and appointed her stepson, Matthew Herzog, to oversee their trust. This unusual bequest highlights the lengths that some pet owners will go to ensure the well-being of their beloved animals.
Maria Assunta and Tommaso the Cat
The story of Tommaso the cat is a true rags-to-riches tale. As a stray kitten, he wandered onto the property of elderly Italian property magnate Maria Assunta, who bequeathed him a staggering $13 million in her will. When Assunta passed away in 2011, her nurse took on the responsibility of caring for Tommaso and managing his vast fortune. This heartwarming story showcases the bond between humans and their pets, as well as the lengths some individuals will go to ensure their animals are provided for.
Ben Rea and Blackie the Cat
When British antiques dealer Ben Rea passed away in 1988, his beloved black cat, Blackie, inherited a whopping $12.5 million. Rea split the remainder of his fortune between various charities, employees, and a close friend, making Blackie one of the wealthiest cats in the world. This generous bequest highlights the special bond between Rea and his feline companion, as well as the growing trend of pet inheritances among the wealthy.
Gail Posner’s Dogs
Miami heiress Gail Posner made headlines when she left her three dogs a $3 million trust and the right to continue living in her mansion after her death. This generous gesture sparked a legal dispute among Posner’s family members, with her son alleging that his mother was taken advantage of by her staff. The bequest to her animals, along with substantial gifts to her employees, showcases Posner’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of her pets even after she was gone.
In conclusion, the trend of pet inheritances among the rich and famous is on the rise, with many individuals choosing to provide for their beloved animals in their wills. From trust funds to mansions, these pampered pets are truly living the high life thanks to their generous owners. As the legal system continues to recognize the rights of animals, we can expect to see more and more pets living like royalty in the years to come.
