5 Ways Pets Can Get You a Tax Break

Tax Day is coming ever closer - April 17th is just around the corner! While some have had their taxes done for months, others are still getting prepared. Well, for those of you who are still preparing to file, here's some great news - your pet might be able to get you a tax break! 

While the IRS doesn't recognize our furry family members as dependents (though any pet owner would argue otherwise), there are certain ways that Spot and Mr. Whiskers can give you a break on your taxes this year. Now, we're not CPAs so you'll want to double-check the specifics with your neighborhood tax person to see if you qualify!

1. Fostering a Cat or Dog

If you are a foster parent (for cats or dogs or any animal) with a qualified 501(c)(3) organization, you may be able to deduct your expenses as a charitable contribution. You may be able to deduct any associated expenses that go toward caring for these animals, including pet food, supplies, and veterinary bills.

Most shelters and organizations that sponsor pet Foster Programs will provide food and medical care, but any expenses paid out of pocket that are necessary for their care that are not provided for or reimbursed are deductible, including your mileage for trips relating to foster care. Just one more reason to foster animals! 

2. Volunteering or Donating to Animal Shelters

If you make donations of cash or goods to a qualified animal charity, keep receipts and letters of the donations. You may be able to claim tax deductions for these donations - and even some of the expenses (like the aforementioned mileage) if you foster animals for the organization. 

3. Cats Used as Pest Control

If you employ "catployees" to keep your business property free and clear of mice, rats and other such pests, you may be able to deduct the costs associated with their care.  

4. Service Animals

If you have a trained and certified service animal (like a seeing-eye dog), you can include the costs of purchasing and training guide dogs, including veterinary, food, and even grooming expenses. Unfortunately, cats cannot legally qualify as service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act, they often serve as therapy or emotional support animals. 

5. Moving House

If you are moving because of a job change - and meet a few strict criteria - you can deduct moving expenses, which includes the cost of moving your cat or other family pet. While it's somewhat troubling in its phrasing, the IRS views your cat (or other family pet) as part of our household personal effects, which allows the costs related to moving them long-distance to be deducted.