I would like to voice my opposition to the proposed veterinary medical procedures and services sales tax.
For many years, I’ve worked for nonprofits that have allowed me to work with and for low-income seniors and people with mental illness. I have witnessed firsthand how important it is for those communities to love and care for their pets of all kinds. I know many people who would cut back on their own food budgets to feed their four-legged loved ones, and cut corners on other expenses to manage the veterinary costs to keep their pals healthy.
According to Anxiety and Depression Association of America, pets and therapy animals can help alleviate stress, anxiety, depression and feelings of loneliness and isolation. Interactions with animals can help people manage their long-term mental health conditions and pets provide a sense of security and routine that provide emotional and social support.
Studies have also shown that pets are facilitators of getting to know people, friendship formation and social support networks. In addition, positive human-animal interaction is related to the changes in physiological variances in humans and animals, including an increase of oxytocin levels in the brain.
In the name of low-income seniors, Utahns with mental illness and other disabilities, please oppose this sales tax.
Sue Weaver, Taylorsville
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