The Junta de Andalucia has announced its seventh tax cut, unveiled just months before the next regional elections – and this time it is aimed at families with dogs, cats or other pets.
President of the Junta, Juanma Moreno, who has been firmly in pre-election campaign mode in recent weeks, revealed on Tuesday what he called a ‘special’ measure designed for those who want to welcome a pet into their home.
‘In some cases they are members of the family and have a positive effect for many people, especially those who live alone, which sadly is a reality across our region and the rest of Spain,’ Moreno said, justifying the move.
‘They give love, but they also need love from us.’
The scheme will allow families to deduct 30% of veterinary expenses for the first year after acquiring a pet, up to a maximum of €100 per animal.
If the pet has been adopted from a shelter – of which there are many in Andalucia – the deduction of up to €100 will be available for three consecutive years.
182,000 beneficiaries
The Junta estimates that some 182,000 residents will benefit, with the measure costing around €12 million.
For assistance dogs, including guide dogs, seizure-alert dogs, and those trained to detect low blood sugar, the €100 deduction will apply for the entire lifetime of the animal.
‘People have been asking us to do this for years,’ Moreno added. ‘These animals play a vital role.’
In practice, anyone adopting from a shelter will be able to claim back 30% of veterinary bills on their annual tax return for three years running.
Part of a wider tax strategy
The regional government insists that since 2019, its wave of tax reforms has turned Andalucia into the second region under Spain’s common tax system where residents pay the least.
Officials point to a 22% increase in the number of income tax payers since 2018, and a 50% rise in revenue collected – despite the cuts.
With elections likely in June 2026, the pre-campaign has only just begun, and measures like these are expected to play a central role in Moreno’s pitch to voters.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
