Capt. Ryan Moss (Ret.)

Jud

Service dogs create an improvement in life when it comes to living with PTSD. I have had my service dog, Major, for over 5 years. During that time, I have gone from not being able to go shopping alone, not participating in family life or events, not being part of community groups, and not being able to hold a full-time job to someone that is able to walk into a store and not think twice about it because I have a partner by my side.

I am able to more actively participate not only with my son’s life by getting involved with things that he enjoys but also with my nieces and nephews by attending their concerts, activities, and even graduation. I am an active member in the Jud Lions Club, American Legion, DAV, and VFW even holding the Lions Club secretary and VFW District 2nd Vice Commander. But most importantly, I have been able to gain full time employment and hold it for almost 3 years now.

Before I had Major none of this was possible and that is why I want to advocate for the Wounded Warrior Service Dog Program (WWSDP). This funding is made available by the federal government and has existed since 2015. However, when the National Defense Authorization Act of FY 26 was passed the WWSDP was not included. That money goes to 28 programs in 23 states representing veterans in all 50 states.

Without that funding those 28 programs that qualify for funding from that program cannot offer service dogs to veterans at no cost to them. But bigger than that is the effect that this loss of funding may have on the organizations that receive them. They may have to stop new applications from being processed or stop placements, close application processes or freeze waitlists, which are on average 2-5 years in length, reduce training staff or capacity, or even close their doors completely, which would mean loss of support for those veterans who currently have a service dog from that program.

The funding for this program runs out on December 31, 2025. I urge you to contact your Congressmen/women. Ask them to contact the Department of Defense (War) and reprogram funds for this program.