Fight for VA-Funded Service Dogs Takes Next Step

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Free Beacon:

he Senate’s version of the PAWS Act was introduced in a bipartisan effort to extend Veterans Affairs treatments to cover service dogs on Wednesday.

 

Senators Deb Fischer (R., Neb.) and Cory Booker (D., N.J.) introduced the bill, known as the Puppies Assisting Wounded Service members (PAWS) Act. It would create a pilot program at the VA to provide veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder with trained service dogs and veterinarian care. The veteran would also be required to make quarterly mental ouseealth check ups at their local VA facility to remain eligible for the program.

 

The bill authorizes $10 million per year to fund the pilot program, which will run from fiscal year 2017 to 2022. It’s House counterpart, introduced in March, has already accumulated 97 co-sponsors from both sides of the aisle and is currently awaiting hearings in the Veterans Affairs Committee.

 

Cole Lyle, a six-year veteran of the Marine Corps who has been a major proponent of the legislation, said his service dog, Kaya, helps him deal with PTSD on a daily basis. He said he’s encouraged by the introduction of the PAWS Act in the Senate and expects it to gain strong support.