The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans (SAVES) Act, (H.R. 2605/S. 1441) represents a vital commitment to improving the lives of our nation’s veterans. This bill isn’t about throwing veterans a bone; it’s about empowering them to battle the invisible wounds of war–like PTSD and traumatic brain injury–and assisting those facing physical challenges from mobility issues, blindness or low vision.

The therapeutic benefits of service dogs are profound, but it’s challenging to provide an exact number of veterans who use service dogs since there is no official database tracking every veteran using a service dog. The VA also has very specific criteria for prescribing service dogs (e.g., for visual, hearing or substantial mobility impairments, and more recently, for post-traumatic stress disorder).

“The Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act will ensure more veterans have access to highly trained service dogs, expanding support beyond PTSD to include those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, military sexual trauma and other service-related conditions. This is about giving our heroes the tools they need to thrive—not just survive—when they come home,” said Congressman Morgan Luttrell. 

 The understanding and use of service dogs for ill and injured veterans continue to evolve. The VA has conducted studies on the efficacy of services dogs on conditions like PTSD, and legislation like the SAVES Act aims to expand veterans access to service dogs for a wider range of disabilities.

“Long after the fighting on the battlefield ends, too many courageous servicemembers come home and continue to battle against the invisible wounds of war. That is why, in 2021, I introduced the PAWS Act, which created a pilot program to provide canine training to eligible veterans. However, we must continue to build on this effort to ensure the program is expanded to veterans in need,” said Senator Tillis. “The SAVES Act will allow more veterans to receive service dogs that could ultimately save their lives. We must repay the debt to the men and women who served our country, and I hope Congress quickly passes this legislation to provide them with his important resource.”

For many disabled veterans, service dogs not only help make life more manageable and enjoyable but are essential for maintaining their independence. However, getting a service dog can be a daunting and stressful task due to the high costs of adoption, training, veterinarian trips and other ancillary costs.

Though the specific amount will depend on the breed of dog and type of training, upfront costs can range from $15,000 to $30,000 and go as high as $50,000. Along with these initial costs, owners can spend between $500 and $10,000 a year caring for their service dog.

This bipartisan legislation ensures equitable access to these life-changing resources by providing federal grants to reputable nonprofit organizations that train and place dogs with veterans. It also guarantees that service dogs are provided to eligible veterans at no cost, including coverage for long-term veterinary care. Additionally, it supports innovative research into the most effective ways to incorporate service dogs into therapeutic care.

“DAV is proud to support the SAVES Act, which empowers veterans to live more independently and with dignity, while ensuring their K-9 companion has the necessary resources for their care,” said DAV National Legislative Director Joy Ilem. “Please contact your lawmakers and urge them to support this important legislation to unleash the healing power of service dogs and help veterans reclaim their lives.”

 

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For more updates on other major veterans’ legislation, join DAV’s Commander’s Action Network (DAV CAN) at davcan.org.