Early morning walkers, runners, joggers and dog walker on the roanoke river greenway — Early Morning Walkers, Runners, Joggers and Dog Walker on the Roanoke River Greenway

RICHMOND, VA – Virginia lawmakers have ignited controversy with a newly introduced bill that would apply the state sales and use tax to a range of pet-related services — including dog walking, grooming, boarding, training, and feeding. The proposed measure, part of House Bill 900, was prefiled on January 13 and officially introduced the following day in the 2026 General Assembly session.

Under the bill, “companion animal care” would be newly classified as a taxable service in Virginia. The legislation specifically lists grooming, walking, training, and boarding among taxable activities, while exempting veterinary medical procedures and services performed under licensed veterinary supervision. The move would represent a significant shift in how the Commonwealth treats pet care businesses, many of which have operated outside the state’s traditional sales tax structure.

Supporters of the bill argue that expanding the sales tax to services is a long-overdue modernization of Virginia’s revenue system, which relies heavily on goods-based taxation. The proposal, they say, could generate millions in new annual revenue earmarked for transportation and infrastructure projects statewide.

Opponents, however, warn that the measure would disproportionately burden small businesses and working families who rely on pet services.

Critics also contend the bill could drive up costs for consumers, with dog walking and grooming fees potentially rising by several dollars per session. Pet care providers have voiced concern that the added tax may discourage clients and squeeze already thin profit margins.

The legislation falls under a sweeping tax reform package that amends or adds dozens of sections to the Virginia Code, including Title 58.1, which governs sales and use taxes. The companion animal tax provision is just one part of a broader plan to expand the state’s taxable base to include certain digital goods and personal services.

House Bill 900 would apply state sales tax to companion animal services such as grooming, walking, and training.
Veterinary procedures and licensed medical care remain exempt under the proposal.
Lawmakers say the tax expansion would help fund Virginia transportation projects.

As the bill advances through committee review, pet owners and business groups across the state are mobilizing to lobby lawmakers for amendments or exemptions.

Public hearings are expected to draw strong turnout in the coming weeks as Virginians debate whether Fido’s next walk should come with a tax bill attached.

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