Protecting America’s Working Dogs Act of 2024

HR 8571, the Protecting America’s Working Dogs Act of 2024, creates a federal grant program to cover medical costs for retired working dogs. It provides grants of up to $575,000 annually to eligible nonprofits that primarily care for qualified working dogs, including retired military and law enforcement dogs, and service dogs for veterans or retired law enforcement officers. The grants fund covered medical expenses like vet visits, procedures, and medications, directly easing financial burdens on handlers who take in these dogs after retirement. Nonprofits must meet strict criteria, including spending at least 70% of funds on medical assistance for these dogs.