Ever wondered what life is like for pets who inherit millions? From luxury living to trust funds that ensure their every need is met, these pampered pets will leave you astonished at the lengths some owners go to for their beloved animals.
1. Gunther III (German Shepherd) – $80 Million
Gunther III’s story is one for the tabloids. Initially reported as inheriting $80 million from Countess Carlotta Liebenstein, it turns out the tale was part of an elaborate publicity stunt. The dog’s fortune, managed by Maurizio Mian, actually belongs to his family’s lucrative pharmaceutical empire. Despite the myth, Gunther has still lived a life of luxury, including owning a villa once sold by Madonna.
2. Kalu (Chimpanzee) – $70 Million
Patricia O’Neill, daughter of a British countess, left her chimpanzee Kalu a staggering $70 million. This was to ensure Kalu lived out his days in comfort at her Cape Town estate. Unfortunately, a financial advisor reportedly siphoned off much of the fortune.
3. Oprah Winfrey’s Dogs – $30 Million
Oprah Winfrey, renowned TV host and billionaire, has set aside $30 million in a trust fund for her five dogs—Luke, Layla, Sadie, Sunny, and Lauren. This ensures they will be well cared for even if something happens to her.
4. Tommaso (Cat) – $13 Million
Tommaso, a stray cat rescued from the streets of Rome, inherited $13 million from his owner, Maria Assunta. The childless widow of an Italian real estate investor wanted to ensure Tommaso’s comfort after her death in 2011.
5. Blackie (Cat) – $12.5 Million
British antique dealer Ben Rea left almost his entire estate to his cat, Blackie, in 1988. The reclusive millionaire’s bequest also benefited three cat charities, ensuring Blackie lived in luxury.
6. Trouble (Maltese) – $12 Million
Leona Helmsley, the real estate mogul, left $12 million to her Maltese, Trouble, in 2007. However, after a legal challenge, the amount was reduced to $2 million. Despite the reduction, Trouble still lived a life of luxury until her passing.
7. Conchita, Lucia, and April Marie (Dogs) – $11 Million
Gail Posner left her three dogs—Conchita, a Chihuahua; Lucia, a Yorkshire Terrier; and April Marie, a Maltese—$11 million, including an $8 million mansion. This extravagant bequest also included funds for their weekly spa visits.
8. Gigoo (Hen) – $10 Million
Miles Blackwell, a British publishing magnate, left $10 million to his hen, Gigoo, after his death. Known for his animal welfare efforts, Blackwell ensured Gigoo’s future was secured.
9. Majel Barrett-Roddenberry’s Dogs – $4 Million
The widow of “Star Trek” creator Gene Roddenberry, Majel Barrett-Roddenberry, left $4 million to her dogs in 2009. An additional $1 million was allocated to a domestic employee to care for them.
10. Michael Jackson’s Chimpanzee, Bubbles
Though not explicitly left a financial fortune, Michael Jackson’s chimpanzee, Bubbles, was well cared for through provisions made in Jackson’s estate. After Jackson’s death, Bubbles continued to live in comfort at a sanctuary.
Are You Doing Enough for Your Pet?
While these examples of extreme pet pampering might seem over the top, they highlight the lengths some go to for their pets’ well-being. Reflecting on these lavish bequests might make you consider your own pet care routine. Are you doing enough to ensure your pet’s health and happiness?
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rasulov.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
