Press Releases

This week, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (R-Ill.) and Ranking Member Mark Takano (D-Calif.), released the following statements after they introduced H. Res. 513, which supports the recognition of September 20th as National Service Dog Day.

“It’s vitally important that we recognize the key role service dogs play in the lives of many of our nation’s veterans,” said Chairman Bost. “The mental health support, independence, and increased quality of life service dogs provide our heroes with is invaluable, which is why I am pleased to join my friend, Ranking Member Takano, in supporting the recognition of September 20th as National Service Dog Day to honor them, especially since this Day also falls during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. As Chairman, leading efforts to improve mental health among veterans is a top priority of mine, and service dogs are an important part that conversation.”

“Mental health can be helped in diverse ways, and many veterans have found their mental health improves through connection with service dogs. I am proud to join Chairman Bost in declaring September 20th as National Service Dog Day. As September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, it is crucial to keep raising awareness, and improving resources for our veterans. Our Committee remains committed to helping our veterans get the care and support they have earned,” said Ranking Member Mark Takano.

“To put it simply, Service Dogs save lives. K9s For Warriors has the privilege every day to see the impact a service dog has on a veteran. With a battle buddy by their side, the veteran returns to a life of dignity and independence,” said K9s For Warriors CEO, Carl Cricco. “Thank you House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost and Ranking Member Mark Takano for playing such a critical role in helping to highlight the lifesaving work of all service dogs across the country.”