Animal taxes are a widespread practice. They are especially common in Europe. As far as Russia is concerned, there has been talk of imposing taxes for many years, but nothing goes beyond words.
In which countries does the animal tax apply
In Spain, there is a tax on pets, but it is rather symbolic in nature: the owners have to pay only 15 euros. For comparison: owners of large dogs in Germany are assigned a tax 40 times higher than in Spain, i.e. they give the state an average of 600 euros.
When determining the amount of tax on dogs in different countries, they are guided by different criteria. For example, in Norway, dog owners pay more the longer their dog is. That is why miniature animals are widespread in this country, the costs of which are quite low. In Sweden, the tax rate, on the other hand, depends on the height of the dog. To pay less, Swedes choose long but short animals. It is not surprising that dachshunds and other short-legged dogs are in such high demand in their country.
In Austria, dog owners have to pay 725 euros for each puppy and take out special insurance policies. If the dog attacks someone, compensation will be paid from the amount of the insurance.
Interestingly, although Europeans are considered law-abiding citizens, many of them hide their animals to avoid paying taxes. The tax inspectorate even has special methods of dealing with non-payers: they use recordings of different versions of barking near houses in order to hear if there is a response barking from behind the door. Anyone who avoids paying taxes on animals will face severe punishment: for example, an Austrian will have to pay a fine of 3,500 euros.
Animal taxes in Germany
Germans are very fond of animals, but those who keep pets in the house have to spend a considerable amount every month. For example, keeping a cat costs an average of 50 euros, even if you do not take out insurance. Additionally, Germans pay tax. It varies on average from 30 to 700 euros and depends on the breed of the animal, its size, the place where it lives, etc. However, despite the fact that the owners have to pay tax, they can keep the animal far from everywhere. For example, it is strictly forbidden to release a cat “for free walking”, allowing it to walk down the street, and also to keep a large dog in an apartment building.
Interestingly, in Germany, the animal tax does not apply to owners who do not have housing and a permanent job. On the contrary, poor people, especially if they suffer from alcohol or drug addiction, receive 3-5 euros per month if they keep an animal.
