Can You Deduct a Pet That Travels With You in the Truck?

Generally no — a pet that rides along in your truck is treated as a personal companion by the IRS, not a business expense, even if the pet genuinely helps with alertness or company on long hauls. There's a narrow exception for a working security or guard animal, but it requires specific documentation most personal pets won't meet. The default rule is that pet-related costs — food, vet visits, pet insurance, grooming — are personal expenses, the same as they would be if the animal stayed home....