Governor Proposes Sales Tax on Veterinary Services

Pets shouldn’t suffer because of budget shortfall

Take our online poll about the Vet Tax!

About the Proposed Tax

Governor Schwarzenegger recently proposed a sales tax on all veterinary services as part of his plan to solve the multi-billion dollar budget shortfall. The proposal recommends that on February 1, 2009, the sales and use tax be broadened to include services, such as "appliance and furniture repair, golf, and veterinarian services." This proposal could add approximately 9% to the cost of veterinary care.

The Marin Humane Society's Opinion

We agree with the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA): It is particularly disturbing that the Governor is suggesting applying the sales and use tax to veterinary services provided to living, breathing animals, whether they are beloved pets or farm animals, while all other applications of this proposed tax are to be applied to inanimate objects or nonessential recreational activities such as golf.

Furthermore, we are concerned that these additional tax costs will:

• Increase the cost of veterinary care in a weak economy, forcing pet guardians to make difficult choices about the health and welfare of their pets
  
  
• Decrease the ability of pet guardians to provide important preventative health care for their pets
  
  
• Increase the rate of pets surrendered to animal shelters as people won’t be able to afford the cost of taking care of their companion animals

It is not right for our pets to suffer because of the state’s financial problems.

What You Can Do To Help

Write letters, make phone calls, send emails, or fax your comments to the Governor and to your elected officials. Let them know that pets are family members and this proposed tax will add a huge financial burden to many pet guardians.

Visit the CVMA website at www.cvma.net for additional facts and contact information. The Governor wants his proposal passed by the end of November so he needs to hear from you now!

Thank you!