Paws and Prosperity: The Surprisingly Wealthy Pets of the Rich and Famous
Welcome to the fascinating world of pets who are not just ordinary companions but also heirs to massive fortunes. These furry friends have been pampered and loved, and have also inherited wealth that most humans can only dream of. This slideshow-style article will take you on a journey through the lives of these unexpectedly wealthy pets of the rich and famous. We'll delve into the stories behind these privileged pets, explore the legalities and logistics of leaving fortunes to animals, and even look at the businesses that have sprung up to cater to these affluent animals.
Leona Helmsley's Dog, Trouble — $2 million inheritance
Leona Helmsley—famously known as the "Queen of Mean"—left a fortune of $12 million to her pet Maltese, Trouble, in 2007. The inheritance led to a family feud, with two of Helmsley's grandchildren contesting the will leading to intense public fascination and controversy at the time. While Trouble's inheritance was reduced to $2 million by a judge who deemed the original sum excessive, she continued to live a life of luxury until her death in 2011 with her trust covering expenses, including $100,000 annually for security, $60,000 annually for caregiver salaries, and $8,000 for grooming.
Maria Assunta's Cat, Tommaso — $13 million inheritance
In Italy, a wealthy widow named Maria Assunta left her $13 million estate to her cat, Tommaso. The black stray cat that Assunta rescued in 2009 was reportedly her closest companion in her final years. Since direct inheritance for pets is not allowed by law in Italy, Tommaso's wealth is managed by the nurse who cared for Assunta in her final days. While Tommaso became a millionaire on paper, his lifestyle remained modest but well-cared for and he lived with his caretaker in a quiet, undisclosed location in Italy. Unlike Trouble, Tommaso's story attracted a lot more admiration than criticism for his owner's dedication to his welfare.
Oprah Winfrey's Dogs — $30 million inheritance
Oprah has set aside a whopping $30 million trust for her dogs in her estate plan. A vocal advocate for animal rights and proper pet care, Oprah hoped to ensure that her pets will be well-cared for in case she passes away before them. She spares no expense in making sure that her dogs live a life of luxury. This includes healthy diets, top-tier veterinary care, and spacious accommodations. Her dogs are often seen lounging in her lavish homes, enjoying scenic outdoor spaces.
Karl Lagerfeld's Cat, Choupette — $200 million inheritance
Chanel's visionary designer Karl Lagerfeld left a chunk of his $200 million fortune to his beloved cat, Choupette. The Birman cat—quite famous for her luxurious lifestyle and for appearing in fashion editorials for luxury labels like Shu Uemura and others—lived a life of opulence. Choupette had two personal maids who catered to her every need, from grooming to meal preparation and she dined on gourmet meals served on silver platters. Lagerfeld took special care to ensure that she had regular visits to the vet and access to the best medical care.
Gigoo, the Wealthy Chicken — $15 million inheritance
Gigoo was a Scots Dumpy hen owned by the affluent British publisher Miles Blackwell and his wife Briony. After his wife's death in 2001, Miles Blackwell established his estate plans, which included leaving £10 million (approximately $15 million) to Gigoo. While the inheritance caused quite a stir—making Gigoo the wealthiest bird in history—it was believed to be a wider philanthropic effort by the Blackwells to draw attention to the need for proper care for all animals, including farm birds like Gigoo. Most of their fortune was left to charitable causes, particularly those supporting animal welfare, sustainable farming, and conservation.
The World's Richest Dog, Gunther IV — $80+ million inheritance
Gunther IV is widely considered the wealthiest dog in the world, with a fortune worth hundreds of millions of dollars but the real story begins with Gunther III who inherited the $80 million fortune of his owner, Countess Karlotta Liebenstein, a wealthy German aristocrat. The Countess had no heirs and left her fortune to her beloved dog in 1991, establishing a trust to manage the inheritance and to take care of his descendants' well-being. The trust, however, has grown multifold since then to include luxury properties, including a Miami mansion once owned by Madonna, valued at over $30 million, along with estates in the Bahamas and Italy. Gunther IV’s lifestyle includes private chefs, trips in limousines, and access to some of the world’s most lavish accommodations.
Tobey Rimes, the Millionaire Poodle — $6 million inheritance
Tobey Rimes, a poodle owned by wealthy New York socialite Ella Wendel, became one of the richest dogs in the world when Wendel passed away in 2004, leaving him a $6 million trust fund for his care and lifestyle. Tobey enjoyed a life of luxury, living in an Upper East Side apartment with professional caretakers, gourmet meals, and extravagant grooming. His inheritance stirred controversy, particularly as Wendel had no immediate family, and her relatives contested the will. Despite the legal battles and public controversy, Tobey continued to live in comfort until his death in 2014.
Olivia Benson, Taylor Swift's Scottish Fold Cat — $64 million net worth
Olivia Benson, Taylor Swift's Scottish Fold cat, was adopted in 2014 and named after the Law & Order: SVU character. Known for her unique folded ears and calm personality, Olivia has become a social media sensation, with millions of followers on her Instagram account. Her estimated net worth is around $64 million, largely due to her extensive social media presence and brand collaborations. Olivia frequently appears in Taylor's posts and music videos, contributing to her fame. She has also been featured in commercial campaigns, endorsing luxury pet products.
Lulu, Bill Dorris' Beloved Collie — $5 million inheritance
Lulu, a Border Collie, became one of the wealthiest pets in the world after inheriting $5 million from her owner, businessman Bill Dorris, following his death in 2020. In his will, Dorris left his entire estate to Lulu to ensure her continued care, comfort, and well-being. The large inheritance was meant to cover her medical expenses, living arrangements, and overall lifestyle. Managed by a caretaker, Lulu’s trust was designed to provide for her for the rest of her life in the way that she was accustomed to. Lulu’s inheritance raised eyebrows, particularly because she was left an amount that many considered unusual for a pet when compared to the amount given to human heirs.
While their lives may be extraordinary, these wealthy pets often leave behind a legacy just like any other pet. They're remembered for their unique personalities and the joy they brought to their owners. The world of wealthy pets is a fascinating one, filled with intriguing tales and unexpected twists. Whether you view these pet inheritances as heartwarming or outrageous, there's no denying that they offer a unique glimpse into the bond between humans and their pets.
