U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has introduced legislation to create a pilot program for the VA to work with nonprofit service dog organizations.

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Tarpon Springs, vice chairman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, has introduced the Pups for Patriots Act.

The proposal promotes the use of service dogs for veterans by establishing a new pilot program for the VA to work with nonprofit service dog organizations.

“The benefits of service dog therapy can in some ways go beyond anything that comes in a pill bottle. My legislation would help support service dog therapy as an alternative treatment by connecting the VA to the many qualified nonprofits nationwide who train and provide service dogs. Many of us have known the unconditional love dogs bring to our lives. This bond can do wonders to help our nation’s heroes as they deal with their invisible wounds,” Bilirakis said.

This is not the first time Bilirakis has advocated for alternative treatments for veterans. Last year, his bill, the COVER Act, was signed into law to promote treatments like outdoor sports therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, accelerated resolution therapy, and more.

Bilirakis represents the 12th Congressional District, which includes north Pinellas and Pasco counties.

For information about Bilirakis, go to bilirakis.house.gov.

Gus Bilirakis | Pups for Patriots | Veterans | Service Dogs | Tampa Bay News | TB Reporter

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