Pet-Related Tax Breaks You Should Know About

It’s tax season, and many people are gathering receipts, forms, and paperwork before the filing deadline. If you’re a pet owner, you may wonder whether any of the costs of caring for your furry family member can help at tax time. While most everyday pet expenses are not deductible, there are a few specific situations where the IRS may allow pet-related tax breaks.

Note: This article is for general information only and is not tax advice. Always consult a qualified tax professional regarding your individual situation.

Can You Claim Your Pet as a Dependent?

As much as we may consider our pets family members, the IRS does not classify dogs, cats, or other companion animals as dependents. Routine expenses such as food, toys, grooming, boarding, and routine veterinary care for personal pets are generally not deductible.

However, certain pets may qualify for deductions if they serve a legitimate business, medical, or charitable purpose.

Potential Pet-Related Tax Deductions

If your situation fits one of the categories below, you may be able to deduct some pet-related expenses.

• Guard dog for a business — If a dog is specifically used to protect a business property (not a personal residence), expenses such as food, veterinary care, training, and supplies may qualify as business expenses. You must demonstrate that the dog works primarily in a security role and maintain clear records.
• Foster animals for a qualified nonprofit — Expenses for caring for a foster pet may be deductible if you foster for a registered 501(c)(3) animal rescue or shelter. Deductible costs may include food, supplies, and veterinary care that are not reimbursed. Detailed receipts and documentation from the organization are required.
• Pest-control cats on business property — Cats used to control rodents at a business location (such as farms, warehouses, or stores) may qualify as a business expense if they are necessary to operations and not primarily personal pets.
• Hobby income from showing animals — If you earn income from showing animals, you may be able to deduct certain related expenses, depending on current IRS rules and whether you itemize deductions. A tax professional can help determine eligibility.
• Service animals — Costs associated with trained service animals for a documented medical condition may qualify as deductible medical expenses. This can include purchase, training, food, grooming, and veterinary care. Emotional support animals generally do not qualify unless they meet strict IRS criteria as medical care.
• Pet influencers with business income — If your pet generates income through sponsorships, advertising, or content creation, expenses directly related to producing that income (such as equipment, props, or costumes) may qualify as business deductions. Proper documentation and reporting of income are essential.
• Moving expenses for service animals — In most cases, moving expenses are no longer deductible except for active-duty military members relocating under orders. If applicable, costs associated with transporting a service animal may be included.

Keep Good Records

If you believe you may qualify for any pet-related tax breaks, documentation is essential. Save receipts, invoices, veterinary records, contracts, and any proof showing the animal’s role in a business, medical treatment, or charitable activity.

Accurate records not only support your claim but also make tax preparation much easier.

When in Doubt, Ask a Professional

Tax laws change frequently, and eligibility depends on individual circumstances. A qualified tax professional can help you determine whether a deduction applies and how to claim it correctly.

At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, we may not prepare tax returns, but we are always here to support your pet’s health and well-being. If you have questions about your pet’s medical care, preventive services, or specialty needs, our team is happy to help.