In November I discussed Governor Arnold Schwartzenegger’s proposal to levy a sales tax on veterinary services in California. It will come as no surprise that few in the veterinary community support the idea. Although I am very troubled by my state’s severe budget crisis, I am not in favor of singling out people with pets to pick up the slack.

The California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) recently sent an e-mail to members describing steps we can take to oppose the tax. The organization suggested that people call the governor’s office to register their opposition to the new tax. The CVMA was kind enough to include simple directions to facilitate the process. Here they are.

* Call the Governor’s office at 916-445-2841.
* Select your language choice.
* Press “5″ to leave your opinion on a current issue.
* Press “1″ to select the issue of extending the sales tax to veterinary services.
* Press “2″ to “oppose” the Veterinary Services Tax proposal.

If you, like me, feel that veterinary services should not be singled out for state sales tax, I urge you to call the governor.

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An article in today’s San Francico Chronicle discusses Arnold Schwarzenegger’s plans to mend the massive hole in California’s budget. Among his answers: charge sales tax for veterinary visits.

Schwarzenegger also wants to broaden the sales tax to include appliance and furniture repair, vehicle repair, golf and veterinary services beginning March 1. His tax package, which would generate nearly $4.7 billion this year, also includes a severance tax on oil produced in California and an excise tax on alcohol. [emphasis mine]

Sorry Arnold, but I can’t support you. In this economy I know veterinarians who are cutting back hours and trimming staff to keep their practices from going under. Vets are strapped. And I meet plenty of people every day who can no longer afford the best possible care for their pets. People with pets are strapped.

Traditionally, services have not been subject to sales tax. I find it interesting that Governor Schwarzenegger chose to tax veterinary services and auto repair, but not human medical services or attorney’s fees. Taxing the latter two industries would draw in much more revenue for the state. It also would draw a lot more fire from armies of vicious, well-organized attorneys. I assume that is why Arnold has decided to pick on mechanics and vets (and their clients).

In this endeavor, Arnold, I wish you the worst of luck. And I’d like to suggest an alternative means of raising revenue. Start taxing people who watch or rent action movies featuring muscle-bound men.

On a different note, Horst recently asked readers for feedback on how the economy is affecting their choice of pet food. His question: are people choosing cheaper pet foods in these tough times?

That excellent question made me wonder: are readers cutting back on veterinary services, flea preventatives, heartworm preventatives, and annual wellness exams because money is now so tight? I’d love to hear what you have to say.

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