Womack Supports Service Dogs for Veterans

Statement

Continuing his commitment to support those who have served, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today cosponsored the Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers (PAWS) for Veterans Therapy Act (H.R. 4305). The bipartisan legislation will expand the access of service dogs for veterans who are struggling with mental health issues.

Congressman Womack said, "It's often said that dogs are a man's best friend--they are that and much more for our veterans. Service dogs have an incredible impact on the lives of our heroes. They make a difference each day by providing companionship, independence, and life-saving emotional support. Those who have selflessly defended our freedom deserve to be taken care of when they come home, and I am proud to support this legislation."

"A soldier under my command during Operation Iraqi Freedom recently told me what his service dog means to him: he was able to fly on a plane for the first time in ten years, and he took his fiancée to dinner. That is the impact this bill can have on the lives of our veterans," Congressman Stivers (OH-15), the lead sponsor of the bill, said. "I'm incredibly grateful to our coalition for their efforts to create this program, and I look forward to getting this bill signed into law so that our veterans can receive the care they need."

The PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act will establish a pilot program within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that gives veterans access to treatment and therapy involving service dogs. Specifically, the VA will partner with non-profit organizations to develop a work-therapy initiative that allows veterans to help train canines to become service dogs. Upon completion of the program, veterans will have the opportunity to adopt the dogs they have instructed. This will create an enduring support system for our past service members.

An average of 20 veterans die by suicide every day, and post-traumatic stress disorder impacts between 11 and 30 percent of veterans who have served in various conflicts. Research conducted by Kaiser Permanente and Purdue University has shown that working with service dogs alleviates the symptoms of PTSD, leading to better interpersonal relationships, lower risk of substance abuse, and overall better mental health.

Supporting this legislation is Womack's latest step to help those who have bravely served our nation. During his time in Congress, Womack has continually backed programs that increase VA transparency, encourage veteran employment, aid in suicide prevention, enhance healthcare options, and help with the transition back into civilian life.

The bill text can be found here.

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