Posted on June 15, 2021 by Pinnacle Pet

On May 12, 2021, the PAWS Act (Puppies Assisting Wounded Service Members) passed in the United States House of Representatives, marking a major victory for legislation that has faced an uphill battle despite bipartisan support. Having passed in the Senate earlier this year, the bill is expected to make its way to President Biden’s desk. If he signs it, the bill will become law and improve the lives of many veterans. 

What is the PAWS Act?

The PAWS Act is legislation that provides Federal funding for providing trained service dogs to U.S. military veterans suffering from P.T.S.D. The V.A. has long helped physically disabled veterans receive service dogs but has resisted authorizing service animals for veterans suffering from mental trauma. Despite evidence that emotional support animals offer many benefits to veterans with P.T.S.D., so far, there has been no approval for Federal funding for P.T.S.D. service dogs. Once PAWS is signed into law, Federal funding will allow nonprofit organizations to pair veterans with loving service dogs.

Support for PAWS Act
 At Pinnacle Pet, we strongly support the PAWS Act. We work closely with Heartland K9’s for Veterans and believe in their mission to pair specially trained dogs to veterans that need and deserve them. The passage of the bipartisan PAWS Act will empower Heartland K9’s for veterans in their mission. PAWS will finally recognize that veterans suffering from P.T.S.D. should receive service dogs that can help them live the life they deserve to live. 

Service dogs specially trained to aid those with P.T.S.D. can notice when their owner is experiencing a nightmare and wake them up. They also encourage their owners to get outside and engage socially. Of course, these dogs are excellent companions and supply the veterans they serve with constant emotional support. 

While Federal funding is a much-needed step in the right direction, we encourage you to consider helping Heartland K9’s for Veterans financially, in addition to supporting the PAWS Act. The difference these service dogs make in the lives of veterans is tangible. We believe it’s truly one of the best causes you can support.