Every pet owner knows that our pets can be expensive to care for, especially when it comes to vet bills.
There are many pet parents who’ve even had to opt for euthanasia over expensive treatments when dire circumstances arise, with money playing a big role in making the heartbreaking decision.
In California, an assemblyman, with two dogs and two cats of his own, is trying to lighten the load when it comes to residents footing their vet bills. Devon Mathis, R-Visalia, introduced Assembly Bill 942 to give pet owners a break on vaccinations, check-ups, surgeries, x-rays, prescriptions and other medical-related expenses for their four-legged friends. The tax credit is limited to healthcare costs for dogs and cats.
If the bill passes, the law will allow an income tax credit that allows Californians to write off half the money they spend on vet costs up to $2,000 per year.
If the bill passes, Mathis hopes that money will hold less weight when it comes to making difficult decisions regarding families and the health of their pets.
It’s possible that the tax credit may also encourage more people to adopt cat and canine companions.