Pet-Friendly Charitable Donations

2015 is coming to an end, and that means time’s running out to make a donation that qualifies you for a tax credit on next year’s returns. There are a lot of deserving non-profit organizations in the Valley that could use your help, and with so many options to choose from you can donate to a cause you’re truly passionate about. If you’re an animal lover, there are numerous organizations you can donate to that will use your heartfelt gift to better the lives of animals in need.

Qualifying Pet-Friendly Charitable Organizations

Charitable cash contributions are tax deductible only if made to qualified organizations. According to the IRS, animal shelters that operate for the purpose of preventing cruelty to animals are qualified organizations that can accept tax-deductible donations. The Arizona Humane Society (AHS) and Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) are two of the largest non-profit animal shelters in the state you can donate to. If you want to donate to your local or favorite animal shelter, ask if your donation qualifies you for a tax credit on next year’s returns.

Claiming Your Tax Credit

“Cash” contributions (those paid by cash, check, electronic funds transfer, debit/credit card, or payroll deduction) made before the end of the tax year must be properly documented in order to receive a tax credit. When making a charitable donation to an animal welfare organization, ask for a receipt showing the name of the organization, the date of the contribution, and the amount donated. A credit card statement or bank record that includes this information will also suffice come tax time.

Other Ways You Can Help Pets in Need

If you missed out on your opportunity to make a year-end tax-deductible donation, there are lots of other ways you can help out animals in need. You can volunteer your time to an animal shelter or veterinary clinic and provide the extra manpower these organizations need to make sure the animals receive the love, care, and attention they deserve. You can also donate some of the much-needed supplies shelters and clinics rely on, such as food, beds, and toys. The AHS has a “wish list” of supplies needed to keep animals healthy and happy. Any of your favorite animal shelters or veterinary hospitals will also gladly accept these heartfelt gifts.

El Dorado Animal Hospital wants to wish you and your family (including the four-legged members) a very happy New Year’s. We’re here to make sure 2016 is a happy and healthy year for your pets. Visit our veterinary clinic in Fountain Hills or call us at (480) 837-0800 to learn about our practice, our staff, and the excellent veterinarian services we provide.

« back to blog