[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 160 (Tuesday, September 30, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E911]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





          RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER AS NATIONAL SERVICE DOG MONTH

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. NICK LaLOTA

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 30, 2025

  Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, one in ten American adults lives with a 
disability, yet there are only about 16,000 accredited service dogs 
nationwide. These dogs provide more than assistance--they offer 
independence, dignity, and healing for children, adults, and especially 
our veterans carrying both visible and invisible wounds. This is why I 
rise today to recognize September as National Service Dog Month.
  Organizations like Canine Companions, Paws of War, and America's 
VetDogs, headquartered in my home state of New York, are leading the 
way. They prepare and place service dogs that make life-changing 
impacts, while continuing to stand behind each partnership well beyond 
the first match. This month is an opportunity to educate the public 
about the vital role service dogs play and the protections in place to 
guarantee their access. It is also a time to honor the trainers, 
volunteers, and families who make this work possible.
  As a Navy veteran, I've seen firsthand the impact these dogs have on 
our service members. So I want to thank all of those organizations who 
are doing this important work.
  We see them. We thank them. We stand with them, and we support them. 
I encourage all Americans to join me in celebrating service dogs and 
the life-changing bond they share with those they serve.

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