Economic factors are a major reason animals are not given optimal medical care. Government fees and taxes on veterinary products and services result in additional costs to treat animals and can lead to decreased; 1) availability of important veterinary medical products; 2) crucial purchases and/or use of these products by owners; and 3) essential animal health care needs/services. Animal health and human health have been shown to be strongly associated. Any cost initiatives that negatively impact animal health care can also have an adverse effect on human health and potentially increase the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks.

The AVMA believes government entities should strongly consider the possible negative effects on human health, animal health and animal welfare that may result from any proposed fees or taxes on veterinary products or services.