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Taking care of a pet might feel like a full-time job, now the IRS is allowing citizens to reap the benefits of said ‘parenthood’
Even though pet parenting might feel like a full-time job, you can’t claim pets as dependents on taxes — but you might be able to write off pet expenses if you meet certain criteria, helping to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.
Can you write off pet expenses?
You can claim your pet on your taxes, but only in specific situations that generally apply to service animals and business income. Here are the different tax deductions your pet may qualify for:
- Veterinary bills
- Medical treatment
- Food and supplies
- Training classes
- Grooming services
- Transportation costs
- Boarding fees
- Pet insurance
How do you claim pets on taxes?
According to Pawlicy Advisor, there are five common pet tax deductions you may be eligible to claim in 2025:
- Service & Emotional Support Animal Tax Deduction
- Guiding a blind person
- Alerting a deaf person
- Assisting with mobility or ambulation
- Protecting an epileptic person during a seizure
- Tax Deductions for Working Animals
- Pets that provide a service for your business.
- A dog working on your farm to protect livestock from prey.
- Pets that provide a service for your business.
- Tax Deductions for Performance Animals
- Pets who’s performance earns you income
- If your pet appears in commercials, television shows, movies, or print advertisements.
- Tax-Deductible Moving Expenses For Pets
- The move must closely relate to the start of work.
- Your new primary job location must be at least 50 miles farther from your old home than your previous job location.
- After the move, you must work full-time at your new job for at least 39 weeks the first year.
- Tax-Deductible Donations to Pet Charities
- Fostering animals
- Volunteering at an animal shelter or rescue organization.
Be sure to speak with your accountant for the best advice on claiming your pet for tax purposes.