I have friends who are DVMs in other states and even my vet here says the economy has taken a bite out of their normal appointment schedule. It seems even routine exams and shots and spay/neuter are down. It is the animal that suffers.

Many shelters across the U.S. are funded by donations, not taxes. They have volunteers, like me, or rescue groups that take in fosters, which I have done as well. Someone has to do it, and it would be great if we “responsible pawrents” had some “thank you” benefit.

You’re right, a tax benefit like this would be a boost to veterinary offices, not to mention improve health outcomes for pets (owners won’t be so hesitant to put their hard-earned money toward needed medications or surgeries if they will be getting some of that money back later).

After all, if I have to pay taxes for things that do not benefit me or pay for welfare, then I should get a tax break for being a responsible pawrent.

I worked my way through school and have student loans. Having my dog and cat was all I had at times, so they have made life easier to deal with at times. Besides, it would be beneficial to keep animals out of the shelters and help owners. Also, it benefits the vet offices in this economy since the owners know they will recoup some expenses. And it will benefit jobs dealing with the pet industry. Hey, kids can walk to school, like I did, or let their parents drive them.