Bipartisan Efforts to Aid Veterans Through Service Dogs Gain Momentum with New SAVES Act
In a significant move to support veterans facing various challenges, the Service Dogs Assisting Veterans (SAVES) Act was introduced by a bipartisan group of senators, including Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). This Act is a direct response to the pressing need for programs that help veterans regain control of their lives after experiencing trauma or injury during service.
K9s For Warriors, America's largest provider of trained service dogs for veterans with PTSD, TBI, and military sexual trauma, played a crucial role in crafting this legislation. The organization, which has successfully paired over 1,100 veterans with service dogs since its inception in 2011, specializes in training rescued dogs to assist veterans in navigating the difficulties associated with their disabilities.
The SAVES Act's primary objective is to direct the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a competitive grant program aimed at nonprofit organizations that provide specially trained service dogs to eligible veterans. These dogs will assist those suffering from various impairments, including visual and mobility disabilities, hearing loss, PTSD, and TBI. This legislative step underscores the acknowledgment of service dogs as valuable allies in the recovery process for many veterans.
Recent studies, including a NIH-funded clinical trial, have revealed that pairing service dogs with veterans significantly lowers the severity of PTSD and reduces negative mental health symptoms. Bill McCabe, VP of Government and External Affairs at K9s For Warriors, articulated the need for more service dogs, emphasizing that the SAVES Act will enhance veterans' ability to reclaim their independence and smoothly transition back to civilian life.
Senator Thom Tillis, who previously introduced the PAWS Act — a pilot program offering canine training to veterans — reaffirmed the importance of expanding access to service dogs for those battling 'invisible wounds' of war. He expressed hope that the Congress would swiftly pass the SAVES Act, emphasizing the moral obligation to support veterans.
Senator Blumenthal moreover highlighted that service dogs play an essential role in the lives of veterans returning from deployment, many of whom face daunting challenges in readjusting to civilian life. He sees the SAVES Act as a way to ensure that the necessary resources are provided to veteran-focused nonprofits, thus facilitating easier access to these life-changing canine companions.
Similarly, Representative Morgan Luttrell stressed that service dogs have a monumental impact on the lives of veterans, providing not just companionship but also crucial support in overcoming obstacles posed by service-related injuries. The conversation reflects a broader commitment to expanding resources available to veterans and emphasizes their unparalleled contributions to national security and freedom.
The introduction of the SAVES Act brings renewed hope to countless veterans who have sacrificed for their country. K9s For Warriors has been at the forefront of this discussion, advocating for the mental health and well-being of veterans since its establishment. With ongoing collaboration between legislators and nonprofit organizations, the future looks promising for expanding access to these cherished service dogs that change lives.
The rigorous standards set for nonprofits receiving grants ensure not only quality care but also adherence to guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), guaranteeing veterans receive the best possible support.
As the nation continues to seek new and innovative methods to assist those who've served, the partnership between K9s For Warriors and legislative leaders signifies a forward momentum towards comprehensive recovery solutions for veterans grappling with the aftermath of war. This legislation not only underscores the significance of service dogs but also reflects a societal obligation to care for those who have bravely defended their country.
To learn more about K9s For Warriors and the impact of trained service dogs for veterans, visit their official website at www.k9sforwarriors.org. The new SAVES Act represents hope and healing for America's veterans, ensuring they have the tools necessary to thrive in their post-service lives.
K9s For Warriors, America's largest provider of trained service dogs for veterans with PTSD, TBI, and military sexual trauma, played a crucial role in crafting this legislation. The organization, which has successfully paired over 1,100 veterans with service dogs since its inception in 2011, specializes in training rescued dogs to assist veterans in navigating the difficulties associated with their disabilities.
The SAVES Act's primary objective is to direct the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to establish a competitive grant program aimed at nonprofit organizations that provide specially trained service dogs to eligible veterans. These dogs will assist those suffering from various impairments, including visual and mobility disabilities, hearing loss, PTSD, and TBI. This legislative step underscores the acknowledgment of service dogs as valuable allies in the recovery process for many veterans.
Recent studies, including a NIH-funded clinical trial, have revealed that pairing service dogs with veterans significantly lowers the severity of PTSD and reduces negative mental health symptoms. Bill McCabe, VP of Government and External Affairs at K9s For Warriors, articulated the need for more service dogs, emphasizing that the SAVES Act will enhance veterans' ability to reclaim their independence and smoothly transition back to civilian life.
Senator Thom Tillis, who previously introduced the PAWS Act — a pilot program offering canine training to veterans — reaffirmed the importance of expanding access to service dogs for those battling 'invisible wounds' of war. He expressed hope that the Congress would swiftly pass the SAVES Act, emphasizing the moral obligation to support veterans.
Senator Blumenthal moreover highlighted that service dogs play an essential role in the lives of veterans returning from deployment, many of whom face daunting challenges in readjusting to civilian life. He sees the SAVES Act as a way to ensure that the necessary resources are provided to veteran-focused nonprofits, thus facilitating easier access to these life-changing canine companions.
Similarly, Representative Morgan Luttrell stressed that service dogs have a monumental impact on the lives of veterans, providing not just companionship but also crucial support in overcoming obstacles posed by service-related injuries. The conversation reflects a broader commitment to expanding resources available to veterans and emphasizes their unparalleled contributions to national security and freedom.
The introduction of the SAVES Act brings renewed hope to countless veterans who have sacrificed for their country. K9s For Warriors has been at the forefront of this discussion, advocating for the mental health and well-being of veterans since its establishment. With ongoing collaboration between legislators and nonprofit organizations, the future looks promising for expanding access to these cherished service dogs that change lives.
The rigorous standards set for nonprofits receiving grants ensure not only quality care but also adherence to guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), guaranteeing veterans receive the best possible support.
As the nation continues to seek new and innovative methods to assist those who've served, the partnership between K9s For Warriors and legislative leaders signifies a forward momentum towards comprehensive recovery solutions for veterans grappling with the aftermath of war. This legislation not only underscores the significance of service dogs but also reflects a societal obligation to care for those who have bravely defended their country.
To learn more about K9s For Warriors and the impact of trained service dogs for veterans, visit their official website at www.k9sforwarriors.org. The new SAVES Act represents hope and healing for America's veterans, ensuring they have the tools necessary to thrive in their post-service lives.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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