New proposals seek to expand tax benefits for vet care in the US

The People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act, introduced by Congresswomen Claudia Tenney and Deborah Ross, is a new federal bill that aims to make veterinary care expenses eligible as tax-advantaged healthcare spending.

The legislation would permit taxpayers to use up to $1,000 (€907) in their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for veterinary care. In the US, HSAs and FSAs allow citizens to set aside pre-tax money for healthcare expenses, with withdrawals being tax-free if used for qualified medical costs.

“Rising veterinary costs often make it challenging for families and veterans to provide care for their pets or service animals,” says Congresswoman Ross.

This benefit applies to the pets of taxpayers, their spouses, or dependents. Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and individuals with disabilities could access unlimited funds for service animals.

Industry support

The bill has received support from various stakeholders. The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) praised the congresswomen for introducing this “common-sense legislation” aimed at making veterinary care more affordable.

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President Sandra Faeh also endorsed the act, noting it would provide “affordable care for pets, greater access to care for service animals and an enhanced ability to detect and prevent zoonotic diseases.”

Puppy Protection Act

US Senator Dick Durbin has recently introduced the Puppy Protection Act, aimed at establishing stronger standards for the veterinary care, housing and breeding of dogs in the country.

The bill seeks to improve conditions for animals living in USDA-licensed breeding facilities by implementing stricter guidelines.

“I’m proud to lead this effort to protect dogs from neglectful breeders who have evaded proper oversight and inspection in the past,” states Durbin. “The Puppy Protection Act will ensure breeding dogs and puppies are well-cared for and live healthy lives.”

The act sets specific measures for caging, space requirements, outdoor access and regular social interaction with both humans and other dogs in breeding facilities.

It also requires a veterinary screening before breeding and limits breeding to a maximum of twice within any 18-month period, with a lifetime cap of 6 litters per dog.