In re the Estate of Hill

John M. Keane, S.

Domestic animals have long been favored companions of man and have eased the burdens of his labors. So much so, that from time to time men blessed with worldly goods seek, in a last will and testament, to grant some benefit to a particular animal or animals in general. Whether they act from love of animals or hate of men, litigation often ensues after their death.

Even an animal hater probably would not complain if the bequest to benefit a dog was, figuratively, only a bone. But when the bequest is substantial and, figuratively, a whole quarter *37of beef, then even those who…