05/01/2026
We have recently received a lot of questions regarding the 6% Kentucky sales tax that is added to pet care services. We completely understand that no one enjoys paying additional taxes, and we truly appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding.
Although we have discussed this before and posted publicly, we would like to provide a more thorough explanation to customers.
At Gone To The Dogs, we never want to increase costs for our clients unnecessarily. However, Kentucky law requires sales tax to be collected on pet care services such as daycare, boarding, grooming, pet sitting, and training services. Because of this, we are legally obligated to charge and remit the 6% sales tax to the state of Kentucky.
We know some customers may compare this to services such as hair salons or nail appointments that may not charge tax. Personal beauty and hygiene services are classified differently under Kentucky tax law than pet care services. Additionally, we cannot speak for how other businesses choose to handle their taxes or whether their services fall under different regulations. We can only ensure that Gone To The Dogs is operating legally and responsibly according to the laws that apply to pet care providers.
When we first opened, this process was not always fully streamlined, and there were times we did not consistently charge the tax on every transaction. Even during those instances, we still paid the required amount to the state out of our own pocket. Moving forward, all applicable services will include the required 6% Kentucky sales tax.
The links to these laws will be included below so you can check the KRS wording yourself.
We strongly encourage you to reach out to your local legislators if you would like to see this repealed or to vote differently. There is nothing else that we can do as business owners or as customers. 
We appreciate every customer who supports our small business and allows us to care for your pets each day. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.
103 KAR 26:090. Veterinarians and pet care service providers. RELATES TO: KRS 139.010, 139.200, 139.260, 139.290, 139.480,
42 U.S.C. 12101 STATUTORY AUTHORITY: KRS 131.130 NECESSITY, FUNCTION, AND CONFORMITY: KRS 131.130(1) authorizes the Department of Revenue to promulgate administrative regulations for the assessment, collection, refunding. administration, and enforcement of Kentucky tax laws. This administrative regulation interprets the sales and use tax law as it applies to transactions involving veterinarians and pet care service providers. Section 1. Definitions. (1) "Pet care services" means non-medical services performed for the benefit of pets and other companion animals such as the services listed in KRS 139.200.
KRS139.200 states:
(i) Pet care services, including but not limited to grooming and boarding services, pet sitting services, and pet obedience training services;
