Va Service Dogs Program
The va supports guide and service dogs for veterans.
Va service dogs program. All service dog requests are reviewed on a case by case basis. This information is from the service dog guide dog benefits rules factsheet. Overcoming fear of public places. Va will recognize for the purpose of paying benefits the following service dogs.
Veterans approved for service dogs are referred to assistance dogs international accredited agencies. Fiercely family we ve created a family environment where veterans sharing similar disabilities learn practice and instill the life skills required to manage their disabilities. Veterans who have a service dog to assist them in functioning because of a severe mobility impairment due to visual hearing or mental health issues are eligible for the program. A guide dog is trained to assist blind and visually.
Service dog veterinary benefits rules service dog veterinary benefits rules the department of veterans affairs va is committed to ensuring veterans receive the benefits for which they qualify. Our service dog for ptsd program serves veterans with combat related ptsd and first responders with work related ptsd. Recognized service dogs for the insurance benefit. You have served in any of the branches of the u s.
Armed forces from any era and have received an honorable discharge. These dogs help with. Va does provide veterinary care for service dogs that are deemed medically necessary for the rehabilitation or restorative care plan of veterans with permanent physical impairments. The trauma assistance dog program tad is designed for veterans with diagnosed service related post traumatic stress.
Va implemented rules to codify the previous authorities for guide hearing and mobility dogs into one regulation 38 cfr 17 148 titled service dogs. The dog and veteran must have successfully completed a training program offered by an organization accredited by assistance dogs international or the international guide dog federation or both for dogs that. What is the difference between a guide dog and a service dog. You are a first responder who has a work related disability.
The va veterinary service benefit includes comprehensive wellness and sick care annual visits for preventive care maintenance care immunizations dental cleanings screenings etc urgent emergent care prescription medications and care for illnesses or disorders when treatment enables the dog to perform its duties in service to the veteran.