J. Luis Correa

10/22/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/22/2026 15:56

CORREA INTRODUCES VETS AND PETS ACT TO IMPROVE VETERANS’ MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

Bill would create a VA grant program for nonprofits to provide dogs and cats as companion pets for eligible Veterans.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Representative Lou Correa (CA-46) introduced the Vets and Pets Act, legislation that would establish a grant program at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for nonprofit organizations that provide dogs and cats as companion pets for eligible Veterans. The bill aims to improve Veterans' mental and physical health by making it easier and more affordable to welcome a pet into their lives.
"Our Veterans put their lives on the line to defend our democracy and our freedom, and too many came home carrying wounds we can't always see," said Rep. Correa. "They deserve peace, not a life of anxiety and depression. A dog or a cat can be a friend on the hardest days. This bill is a simple, practical way to give our Veterans that companionship and improve their quality of life."
The VA's National Center for PTSD found that 23 percent of Veterans using VA care have had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives, and that Veterans experience higher rates of PTSD than non-Veterans. PTSD is associated with anxiety and depression, and can lead to social withdrawal.
Research shows that animal companionship improves both the physical and mental health of Veterans. The Vets and Pets Act would help more Veterans experience those benefits by removing the cost barriers that keep many from having a pet.
The Vets and Pets Act would:
  • Provide grant funding to nonprofits that place dogs and cats with Veterans
  • Cover initial supplies, including a collar, leash, bedding, and one month of food
  • Cover the cost of spaying or neutering the pet
  • Cover all initial medications and vaccinations
View the bill text here.
J. Luis Correa published this content on October 22, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 22, 2026 at 21:56 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]